The bill S. 477 aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding the dispensing of self-administered hormonal contraceptives by pharmacists. It revises the definition of "self-administered hormonal contraceptive" to include various forms of hormonal contraceptives approved by the FDA, while explicitly excluding intrauterine devices and drugs intended to terminate pregnancies. Additionally, the bill allows pharmacists to dispense these contraceptives under certain conditions, including the establishment of written joint protocols between the Board of Medical Examiners and the Board of Pharmacy.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the existing provisions that govern how pharmacists can dispense self-administered hormonal contraceptives. It permits pharmacists to dispense these contraceptives without requiring a patient-specific written order, as long as they are acting under standing orders or written joint protocols. This change is intended to enhance access to hormonal contraceptives for patients, particularly those aged eighteen and older, or those under eighteen with prior prescriptions. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
03/20/2025: 40-43-210, 40-43-230, 40-43-240
Latest Version: 40-43-210, 40-43-230, 40-43-240