Native women seeking emergency contraception at Indian Health Services facilities run by the federal government now can get it without a consultation or prescription. The agency confirms that Plan B and generic versions are being provided to women 17 years and older at pharmacy windows.
Native women previously had to see a health care provider and get a prescription for the medication that is dispensed on site. Women's health advocates say it was unfair and burdensome, particularly when Plan B becomes less effective the longer it's taken after sex. IHS says it issued verbal directives to the facilities it runs to expand access. The health advocates say they're still waiting for a written policy. Any woman 17 and older can get emergency contraception from behind the counter at retail pharmacies.
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