Federal Judge Rejects Patient’s Rights
Seattle, WA – In a swipe at patients’ rights, a federal judge has suspended two Washington State Pharmacy Board rules, WAC 246-869-010 and WAC 246-863-095, that require pharmacists to fill prescriptions for stocked medications on-site, and ensure that all patients are treated professionally and respectfully. “This ruling is outrageous,” said Karen Cooper, executive director of NARAL Pro-Choice Washington. “I am shocked and disappointed that the judge would put the personal opinions of a few pharmacists over the right of women to access Plan B® emergency contraception and regular birth control when and where they need it.” “These rules are necessary to protect women’s health and safety,” Cooper added. “Patient access to appropriate care should not be undermined by personal, non-medical judgments.” The new rules provide important protection for patients’ access to birth control, including Plan B®, a higher dose of the regular birth control pill. “Women’s access to Plan B®, a time-sensitive medication, should not be dictated by the whims of any one pharmacist.” Cooper said. “Access to contraceptives is a critical part of women’s reproductive heath.” NARAL Pro-Choice Washington will continue to work with coalition allies to protect access to Plan B® emergency contraception and other time-sensitive medications. NARAL Pro-Choice Washington is the leading grassroots pro-choice advocacy organization in Washington State. NARAL Pro-Choice Washington works to protect every woman’s right to access the full range of reproductive health options, including preventing unintended pregnancy, bearing healthy children, and choosing legal abortion. NARAL Pro-Choice Washington is the state affiliate of NARAL Pro-Choice America. # # #
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