(photo) Somers Applauds Ceremonial Signing of Bill to Allow Trained Pharmacists to Prescribe Birth Control

For Immediate Release

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

“Expanding Access to Reproductive Health Care.”

Sen. Heather Somers today applauded the governor’s July 19 ceremonial signing of legislation which incorporates a proposal she co-introduced with Sen. Ryan Fazio (R-Greenwich) to allow trained pharmacists to prescribe birth control. The bill was officially signed on June 13.

“I applaud the governor for his support of this legislation,” Sen. Somers said.  “We have championed it since February.  It will expand access to reproductive health care, give women more options, reduce costs, and 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. I have heard from women from across the state: They want this policy change.  Many women don’t have convenient access to primary care physicians and live in reproductive health care ‘deserts’, so they appreciate having this option.”

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.

Sen. Somers represents Griswold, Groton, North Stonington, Plainfield, Preston, Sterling, Stonington and Voluntown.

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.