Adolescents' Perceptions of Contraception Access through Pharmacies

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pharmacy Practice
• Adolescent Health

Background:

• Adolescent pregnancy remains a significant public health concern.
• Pharmacist prescribing of contraception offers a potential strategy to increase access and reduce unintended pregnancies.
• Limited research exists on adolescent acceptance of pharmacist prescribing, especially in conservative regions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore young women's perceptions of pharmacist contraceptive prescribing in Indiana.
• To identify factors influencing adolescent willingness to use pharmacist-provided contraception.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving 60 young women (aged 14-21) in Indiana.
• Participants engaged in a simulated pharmacist prescribing encounter.
• In-depth interviews and questionnaires were used to gather data on perspectives and experiences.

Main Results:

• Over half (55.9%) of participants expressed interest in pharmacist contraceptive prescribing.
• Key themes included the importance of accessibility, quality of care, and pharmacist's youth-friendliness.
• Subthemes emphasized the need for confidential access, enhanced pharmacist training in contraception, and relatable pharmacist interactions.

Conclusions:

• Adolescents are receptive to pharmacist contraceptive prescribing, highlighting opportunities for expanded access.
• Addressing concerns about confidentiality, pharmacist knowledge, and interpersonal skills is crucial for successful implementation.
• Findings can inform state policies and pharmacy protocols to better serve young people's reproductive health needs.