RPS backs call for nationally commissioned pharmacy contraception service

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has partnered with the Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare to advocate for a nationally commissioned
service to provide free oral emergency contraception through community pharmacies in England.

Tase Oputu, chair of RPS in England, has called the current inequities in access to free emergency contraception in the country “unacceptable,” noting that only
around half of community pharmacies are commissioned to offer this essential service.

As a result, many women are left without the support they need in time-critical situations.

She said: “All women should have equal access to free emergency contraception, no matter where they live.”

“Inconsistent commissioning of the service across England creates unnecessary barriers to those on low incomes and puts additional pressure on other healthcare
services.”