Prescribed Drug List: Washington Board of Pharmacy Rules Pharmacies Should Dispense Plan B
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Plan B, also known as the morning-after pill, has been on the prescribed drug list ever since its 1993 approval by the FDA and pharmacies may soon be required to dispense Plan B. Although most pharmacists are aware of their obligations and do not withhold information on prescriptions drugs from patients, a few do object to the dispensation of emergency birth control and deny dispensation to patients.
Along with the increase in sales, is the intensification of controversy that surrounds the use of Plan B.Until recently, pharmacies were obligated to dispense Plan B despite their personal reservations. They held no conscience right to refuse dispensation to requesting patients. Individual pharmacies were required to stock the drugs, although individual pharmacists could refer patients to other pharmacists in the store who could dispense on their behalf.
On November 4, 2010 the Washington Board of Pharmacy voted in favor of drafting new rules and decided to change the law prohibiting pharmacies from refusing to dispense legal drugs, which includes emergency contraception.
The Board voted 3-2 that pharmacists who have qualms about dispensing controversial medication because of conscience or religion can now refer patients to other pharmacies which will sell the drugs.
The Politicization of Withholding Dispensation and Prescribed Drug List Info
With the 2007 rule, prohibiting pharmacies from refusing to dispense legal drugs was struck down in the aftermath of various lawsuits against the state. Public commentary and concern has emerged from those in favor of Plan B, who argue it's time sensitive and legal drugs should be available upon demand.
Opponents claim that pharmacists should dispense factual info on any prescribed drug list and legal medication, rather than their own personal judgment.
