Pharmacy Contraception Service May 25

This Podcast outlines the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service in England, detailing how community pharmacists can supply combined oral contraceptives (COC) and progestogen-only pills (POP) under Patient Group Directions (PGDs). The service, which launched in April 2023 and expanded in December 2023, enables pharmacists to initiate and provide ongoing supplies of oral contraception, aiming to improve access and convenience for patients. Key aspects covered include the required pharmacist training and competency, patient eligibility and exclusion criteria, consultation procedures, and record-keeping requirements for both clinical data and payment purposes. The service will also be expanded in October 2025 to include emergency hormonal contraception consultations.