Can a pharmacist refuse to fill a prescription for birth control?
Many major pharmacy chains also have policies in place that prohibit pharmacists from refusing to fill prescriptions for birth control, but some stores have “refuse and refer” policies. Like other retail store policies, a pharmacist’s failure to comply could result in discipline or, at worst, termination.
When can a pharmacist refuse to dispense a prescription?
If a patient does encounter a pharmacist who won’t fill their prescription, experts say the patient should ask for another pharmacist at the store to fill it for them, or if there isn’t one, get their prescription slip back so they can have it filled elsewhere.
What are the implications of a pharmacist refusal to fill a prescription?
If an individual pharmacist refuses, the prescription would be given to another practitioner in the pharmacy. Also, at the patient’s request, a pharmacy would be required to order prescription birth control not usually stocked if it stocks other prescription contraception.
Can pharmacists refuse medication?
Can the pharmacist refuse to fill my prescription? Yes, a pharmacist in his or her professional judgment may refuse to fill a prescription.
Can pharmacist refuse Plan B?
Independent companies are now joining the political fray over the emergency contraception medication known as Plan B. The Target retail chain now allows pharmacists at its stores to refuse to fill Plan B prescriptions, saying they are respecting the religious beliefs of its employees under the 1964 Civil Rights Act.
Can a pharmacist confiscate a prescription?
A pharmacist can do this legally and is duty-bound to uphold such safe medical principles. As much as it may feel annoying or confusing when pharmacists confiscate your prescription, there are many ways you can avoid this.
Which term means a pharmacists right to refuse to fill a contraceptive prescription?
conscience clauses
Also known as “conscience clauses”, these protections were first enacted in response to the United States Supreme Court’s decision in the Roe v. Conscience clauses give pharmacists the right to refuse to perform certain services if it violates their religious or personal beliefs or values.
What is the pharmacist refusal clause?
Conscience clauses give pharmacists the right to refuse to perform certain services if it violates their religious or personal beliefs or values. Some states explicitly grant pharmacists the right to refuse to dispense drugs related to contraception on moral grounds.
How do I refuse to fill a prescription?
The pharmacist must not fill the prescription when the results of a reasonable inquiry do not overcome concern about a prescription being written for a legitimate medical purpose. Just say “No.” A pharmacist has a right and responsibility to deny a prescription if it does not seem legitimate.
Can a pharmacist refill a prescription?
Pharmacists cannot renew a prescription for a period longer than the original prescription period. Your pharmacist does not replace your doctor. You will still need to consult your doctor for a new prescription after your pharmacist’s renewal.
What can I do if my doctor refuses to refill a prescription?
Obtaining an Emergency Supply of Your Medication If you cannot get in touch with your doctor or you are in immediate need of your medication, go to a nearby pharmacy and tell them you need an emergency supply. You may be required to provide proof of your Rx, so bring your prescription bottle with you.
Can a pharmacist refuse to dispense a prescription?
Six states, including Arizona, have laws or regulations that allow pharmacists to refuse to dispense medication for religious or moral reasons without any obligation to the patient, such as transferring the prescription to another pharmacist or pharmacy, according to the National Women’s Law Center.
Who was the pharmacist who refused to fill a contraception prescription?
The only pharmacist on duty, Neil Noesen, asked if she intended to use the prescription for contraception. When she replied in the affirmative, Noesen, a Roman Catholic, refused to fill the prescription, explaining that to do so would be against his religious beliefs. She thought that he was kidding.
Can a university deny you birth control coverage?
In 2017, the Trump-Pence administration issued birth control rules that would allow virtually any employer or university to deny coverage to its employees and students. In early 2018, the administration proposed its broader religious refusal rule, expanding health care workers’ ability to deny people care.
When was Susanne Koestner denied a birth control prescription?
Susanne Koestner, seen here with her 2-year-old son Evan Kelley, was denied a birth control prescription from an Albuquerque, New Mexico, pharmacist in 2012. Courtesy Susanne Koestner