Oregon could be the first in the nation to implement such legislation. The Senate Rules committee approved Rep. Buehler’s measure to allow women to purchase birth control without a doctor’s visit. Buehler, an orthopedic surgeon from Bend, introduced the legislation earlier this session and led the bipartisan work group assigned to the concept.
“Oregon is one step closer to becoming the easiest place in the nation for women to access birth control,” said Buehler. “Improving access to contraceptives will give women more options and more control over their health care needs.”
The legislation (HB 2879) would allow birth control to be sold behind the counter at local pharmacies without a physician visit and prescription. Oregon Health Authority and Oregon Board of Pharmacists would be responsible for structuring rules to ensure safe prescribing by pharmacists – including brief training for pharmacists, a self-screening test for contraindications, and notifying the customer’s primary care provider. The contraceptives would still be covered by insurance, which is important to lower costs for consumers.
“Not only will this bill reduce unintended pregnancies and improve women’s health, but studies have shown that easy access to birth control is an important factor in reducing poverty as well. Clearly, this is what is best for women’s health in the 21st century,” explained Buehler.
HB 2879 will now go to the Senate floor for a full vote. If passed, Oregon would be the second state in the nation to pass such legislation, along with California. Since California has yet to develop their administrative rules around the change, Oregon could become the first in the country to implement this historic expansion of access.
