The bill amends Section 5-19.1-36 of the General Laws concerning pharmacies, specifically regarding the prescribing and dispensing of hormonal contraceptives by pharmacists. It allows pharmacists to prescribe and dispense all short-term, FDA-approved hormonal contraceptives. Additionally, pharmacists are required to complete specific educational training and provide a self-screening risk assessment tool to patients. They must also notify the patient's primary care provider about the prescription and provide a list of healthcare providers for follow-up care if the patient does not have a primary care provider or refuses consent for notification.

Significantly, the bill removes the limitation on initial prescriptions, which previously restricted them to a three-month supply. It also changes the consultation requirements for the state board of pharmacy, allowing it to adopt rules solely in consultation with the Rhode Island Department of Health, rather than also involving the Rhode Island medical board and the Rhode Island state board of nursing. The act aims to enhance access to contraceptive care and will take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
6038: 5-19.1-36