Kansas pharmacist's knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding over-the-counter emergency contraception

Abstract

In 2006, the FDA approved OTC sale of emergency contraception (EC). A 2008 survey assessed characteristics, knowledge, and attitudes/beliefs of Kansas pharmacists regarding EC. Purpose: Reanalyze the 2008 data to identify the influence of various factors on pharmacists’ willingness to sell. Methods: Uni variate odds ratios and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed. Results: Factors associated with willingness to sell EC included high EC knowledge [OR 3.4 (2.1-5.6)], lack of moral objection [OR 58.6 (31.3-103.9)], non-conservative political views [OR 6.6 (4.3-10.1)], and working in a larger community [OR 1.6 (1.1-2.4)]. Conclusion: In theory, identifying factors associated with willingness to sell EC may benefit those wishing to improve access/availability; however, many of the factors identified represent personal values/beliefs which may not be easily modifiable.