Kansas pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding over-the-counter emergency contraception
Citation
Shrack, J.S., Stump, E.K. , L.S. (2008) . Hale, Kansas pharmacists’ knowledge, attitudes and beliefs regarding over-the-counter emergency contraception . In Proceedings: 4th Annual Symposium: Graduate Research and Scholarly Projects. Wichita, KS: Wichita State University, p.93-94
Abstract
To increase patient access, the FDA
recently approved OTC sale of emergency contraception
(EC) however increased access may not have been
achieved due to pharmacists refusing to sell the product.
Purpose: Measure knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of
KS pharmacists regarding EC. Methods: A survey with
46 items assessing respondent characteristics,
knowledge, and attitudes/beliefs was mailed to all 2,601
registered KS pharmacists. Results: A total of 22.4% of
pharmacists responded, n=583. The overall mean
knowledge score was 57% ± 20, however scores were
higher in persons working in settings where EC is sold,
46% ± 21 vs. 61% ± 18, p<0.001. The knowledge
question with the lowest accuracy, 28%, asked about
notifying authorities in cases of sexual assault. Only
37% correctly identified the primary mechanism of
action as delaying/preventing ovulation. A majority of
pharmacists would dispense EC in cases of rape (80%),
incest (79%), and regardless of the situation (62%).
However, many expressed concerns including its use as a
regular form of birth control (44%), medical liability
(41%), and promoting unsafe sex (37%). Religious and
political views significantly affected willingness to
dispense. Conclusion: Overall, knowledge of KS
pharmacists regarding EC is low and should be
strengthened. While the majority of pharmacists are
willing to dispense EC, a significant number did express
concerns indicating this may be causing some
professional ethical stress deserving of statewide
discussion.
Description
First Place winner of non-oral presentations at the 4th Annual Symposium on Graduate Research and Scholarly Projects (GRASP) held at the Hughes Metropolitan Complex, Wichita State University, April 25, 2008.
Research completed at the Department of Physician Assistant, College of Health Professions