about the policies

On April 1st, 2023, BC implemented a first-in-Canada universal no-cost subsidy for prescription contraception. This subsidy covers prescription options like oral contraceptive pills, copper and hormonal intrauterine devices, hormonal injections, subdermal contraceptive implants, vaginal rings, as well as over-the-counter emergency oral contraceptives.

This policy eliminates the burden of cost that is often associated with many prescription contraception methods and increases confidentiality as pharmacists cannot charge fees for dispensing, assessment, or any other action associated with filling the prescription for contraceptives covered under the new contraception subsidy, thus minimizing the paper trail that often existed when pharmacists billed for contraceptives before the subsidy.

On June 1st, 2023, BC pharmacists’ scope of practice expanded to include independent prescribing for hormonal contraception. This second policy expands pharmacists’ scope of practice to include prescribing all forms of hormonal contraception.

Community pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals in BC due to their numbers, broad geographic distribution, and pharmacy operating hours. Thus, people who may not have or have limited access to primary care may access the healthcare system through this expanded route of entry and receive the contraception information and services they desire.