Pharmacists' experiences and perspectives on the provision of medical abortion medication

This study aimed to explore pharmacists' attitudes, beliefs, and perceptions regarding the supply of Mifepristone and Misoprostol (MS-2 Step), in order to identify potential barriers and enablers to providing this service.

A cross-sectional study was conducted between 29th of August 2024 to the 10th of February 2025. Registered community pharmacists were recruited through convenience sampling via direct email to pharmacies and professional social media platforms to complete a 19-item online survey. Data were analysed in SPSS to using descriptive statistics, non-parametric tests, and logistic regression to examine factors associated with willingness to dispense MS-2 Step.

Two hundred thirty-four registered community pharmacists were recruited from all states/territories in Australia with the majority working full-time (47.9%) and practicing for 1-5 years (30.8%). The main perceived benefit to the service was increased accessibility to medical abortion for women (69.5%), while a key barrier to the provision of the service was the lack of sufficient training/education for pharmacists (29.5%). Participants also expressed wanting to expand their scope of practice but being restricted by work constraints/pressures. Cultural and religious beliefs were also identified as a barrier to providing the service (26.1%).

This study revealed that most pharmacists are willing to provide medical abortion to reduce burden on the healthcare system and increase accessibility. However, they are restricted by lack of training, and conscientious objection as well as religious or moral beliefs.