A Youth-Friendly Pharmacy Initiative: Decreasing Unintended Pregnancies Among Disenfranchised Youth

Teens from neighborhoods that have experienced historical and contemporary disinvestment have among the highest rates of teen pregnancy, yet they have less access to resources to reduce unintended pregnancies. In recognition of this, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (NYCDOHMH) developed the Youth-Friendly Pharmacy Initiative. Over 7 consecutive months in 2015, educational materials and free NYCDOHMH condoms were placed strategically in independent pharmacies in the South Bronx. Refills were made monthly. Pharmacists were directed to order free refills from the NYCDOHMH after the project ended. To evaluate the feasibility of the study, a survey with teens (15-19 years) at the study midpoint and a 3-month post follow-up assessment were conducted. The retention rate over 7 months was 96.4% (27/28 pharmacies). Forty-three percent (2,068/4,830) of the booklets and 87.9% (43,841/49,850) of the condoms were taken by patrons. The posters and pamphlets were recognized by 63.6% and 27.3% of the teens, respectively. Forty-percent of the teens were aware of the free condoms, and one third had taken the free condoms. In the post assessment, 20% of the sampled pharmacies independently sought out resources for free condom refills. Pharmacies are positive sexual and reproductive health resources for underserved teens.