Since the Manitoba government announced that birth control would be free last year, 288,150 prescriptions have been filled.
The government has now expanded pharmacists’ scope of practice, allowing them to assess for, prescribe and administer eligible birth control, making it easier for Manitobans to access reproductive health care close to home.
Uzoma Asagwara is Manitoba's Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care Minister.
"Healthcare works best when every single member of a healthcare team can practice to their full scope," said Asagwara. "When they're able to use their full education and expertise."
Pharmacists must complete approved training before providing contraceptive assessments and prescribing contraceptives.
Pharmacists who have completed the required training can now assess for and prescribe eligible prescription contraceptives including:
- oral contraceptive pills,
- hormonal patches,
- vaginal rings, and
- intramuscular contraceptive injections.
Jennifer Hlynsky is the vice-president of Pharmacists Manitoba.
"The government is not only permitting highly-trained pharmacists to provide this type of patient care, but they're ensuring there is no cost to patients," she said.
Eligible Manitobans with a valid Manitoba Health card can receive up to three pharmacist-provided contraceptive assessments each benefit year and up to four pharmacist-administered contraceptive injections each benefit year at no cost.
