Expert Discusses Role of the Pharmacist in Reproductive Health | APhA 2025
Jasmine Cutler, PharmD, CPh, assistant professor in the department of pharmacy practice at the Taneja College of Pharmacy, discusses role of education and accessibility in reproductive health.
The role of pharmacists in reproductive healthcare has dramatically evolved since the introduction of birth control in the 1960s, Jasmine Cutler, PharmD, CPh, assistant professor in the department of pharmacy practice at the Taneja College of Pharmacy at the University of South Florida. Today, pharmacists are integral to medication selection, management of adverse effects, and, in some states, even prescribing birth control options like tablets, patches, and rings. However, this expanded role comes with significant challenges, including varying state reimbursement policies, time constraints, and limited access in pharmacy deserts.
Pharmacists now play a crucial role in patient education and counseling about contraceptive options. This involves providing comprehensive information about different birth control methods, their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, and potential adverse effects. Cutler emphasizes the importance of creating a non-judgmental, culturally competent environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their reproductive health needs. Key counseling points include explaining emergency contraception usage, potential adverse effects, and the importance of routine medical screenings. Collaboration and advocacy are central to the modern pharmacist's approach. This means working closely with other health care professionals, including physicians, nurses, and social workers, and utilizing resources like CDC websites and Bedsider to provide accurate, patient-friendly information.
Pharmacists are encouraged to be proactive in community education, particularly targeting younger populations through social media, high schools, and colleges to combat misinformation. Accessibility is also critical, ensuring that contraceptive options are not only available but also easily obtainable, with staff trained to provide supportive, discrete, and personalized care. The ultimate goal is to empower patients with comprehensive, compassionate reproductive healthcare, positioning pharmacists as key advocates and educators in this important field.
"Some of these emergency contraceptives, some of the over-the-counter products, are actually locked away or behind the counter, and some patients may not even know that they're being sold at a particular location," Cutler said. "They may be kind of scared or timid to even come and ask where some of these products are. So I think accessibility is important along with education. So I think they should go hand in hand."
