(photo) Sen. Fazio Applauds Signing of Bill to Allow Trained CT Pharmacists to Prescribe Birth Control

For Immediate Release

Sen. Fazio Applauds Signing of Bill
to Allow Trained Pharmacists to Prescribe Birth Control

“It will give women more options, reduce costs, and improve health outcomes.”

Sen. Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich) today applauded the governor’s June 14 signing of legislation which incorporates a proposal he co-introduced with Sen. Heather Somers (R-Groton) to allow trained pharmacists to prescribe birth control.

“This legislation will give women more choice over their health care decisions,” said Sen. Fazio. “It has been successful in expanding access to reproductive health care in states throughout the country. It will give women more options, it will reduce costs, and it will improve health outcomes.  We have a shortage of medical professionals in our workforce, and we must make sure we are efficiently utilizing skilled professionals to help render health care.”

The legislation authorizes pharmacists to prescribe contraception to a patient if the accredited pharmacist completes an educational training program that addresses appropriate patient medical screenings, drug interactions, treatment strategies, and when to refer patients to medical providers.

“I have heard from women from across the state: They want this policy change,” Sen. Fazio said.  “Many women don’t have convenient access to primary care physicians and live in reproductive health care ‘deserts’, so they appreciate having this option. Surveys of women discussing the issue show that 75 % feel confident in the ability of their pharmacists to prescribe birth control.  From all the evidence, the states that have passed this law are happy with the outcome.”

Sen. Fazio represents Greenwich, New Canaan and Stamford.

Attached photo, left to right:  Rep. Holly Cheesman (R-East Lyme), Sen. Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich), and Sen. Heather Somers (R-Groton) visited a CVS Pharmacy in Groton in February.