Women in New York no longer need a doctor’s prescription to get birth control. Pharmacists throughout the state can now dispense birth control without a prescription to anyone, according to an order signed March 19 by the state health commissioner. The order pertains to three types of self-administered hormonal contraceptives approved by the federal Food and Drug Administration: oral hormonal pills, hormonal vaginal rings, and hormonal contraceptive patches.
Pharmacists who choose to participate can give individuals up to a 12-month supply of the customer’s contraception of choice. Out-of-state visitors can also obtain birth control in New York—a major step forward in women’s ongoing fight for reproductive rights in the United States. “Anybody can—you’re welcome to get a year’s supply,” state health commissioner James McDonald said at a news conference after signing the order. “You want to come to New York and get your birth control pill, you’re welcom