Original Research
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
08:30 AM–10:00 AM
Abstract
Introduction: Given the low rate of primary care utilization and the high need for contraception among 18-24 years olds, the Purdue University Pharmacy offers pharmacist contraceptive prescribing. Students meet with a pharmacist, and may receive a contraceptive prescription (pill, patch, ring, injection, gel, emergency contraception, diaphragm). Bundling contraceptive counseling, prescribing, and dispensing in a pharmacy reduces the burden of multiple visits for students. One criticism is the potential to miss recommended preventive screenings.
Research Question or Hypothesis: Why do students obtain contraception via the pharmacy? What is the actual and planned use of preventative services prior to, and following, pharmacy contraceptive prescribing?
Study Design: Prospective survey
Methods: Following their appointment (8/2022–5/2023), an optional 18-item survey evaluated why the patient saw the pharmacist for birth control, future plans to see their primary care provider, and receipt of preventative care in the past 2-3 years. A $5 incentive was provided. Descriptive statistics were done via Qualtrics.
Results: Thirty participants (18-34 years) completed the survey; all received contraception. Multiple reasons could be selected for seeking contraception at a pharmacy (n=91): convenient location (n=22, 24%), getting prescription faster (n=19, 21%), and saving money (n=14, 15%). Eleven (36.7%) received at least one preventive screening in the past 2-3 years: pap smear (n=5, 11.9%), breast exam (n=5, 11.9%), sexually transmitted infection testing (n=8, 19.1%), and pelvic exam (n=5, 11.9%). Six (20%) intended to see a primary care provider in the next 3 months, 9 (30%) within a year, and 5 (27%) in the next 3 years
Conclusion: Over 1/3 of students receiving a pharmacist contraceptive prescription reported at least one recommended screening. Most plan on seeing a provider within 3 years. Use of the pharmacy contraceptive prescribing service does not replace recommended care, and campus pharmacies may consider how to bundle recommended screenings with contraceptive prescribing services.
Presenting Author
Ashley Meredith PharmD, MPHPurdue University College of Pharmacy
Authors
Zoona Ahmad PharmD
Purdue University
Mary Ott MD, MA
Indiana University School of Medicine
Carolyn Curry MD
Indiana University School of Medicine
Katherine Davis PharmD Student
Purdue University College of Pharmacy