Call for pill prescriptions waiver

New emergency coronavirus legislation should include measures to allow the contraceptive pill to be made available free from pharmacies without a prescription, according to Scottish Greens MSP Alison Johnstone.

The Scottish Parliament is due today to debate the second emergency Covid-19 Bill which aims to help public services continue to operate during the coronavirus pandemic.

Ms Johnstone will lodge an amendment to the legislation as she believes the lockdown measures have reduced access to contraceptives which is a “major concern for many women in vulnerable situations”. Currently the contraceptive pill can only be accessed for free with a prescription from a GP,

She said: “Allowing pharmacists to issue the contraceptive pill free of charge would reduce pressure from frontline GP services and remove barriers for women who need to access contraception at this most challenging time.

“The Scottish Government has advised that people should think serious about starting a family during this crisis, so it is important that it makes access to contraception as easy as possible.

“Ministers have already announced that the minor ailment service offered by pharmacies has been extended during the emergency period. Allowing women to access the contraceptive pill through this service would be a great relief for many, while at the same time relieving pressure on frontline GP services. I intend to bring forward an amendment to the emergency coronavirus legislation to ensure this can happen.

“There is particular concern that many women are more vulnerable to domestic abuse, including coercive control, as the lockdown continues and access to contraception must be part of the support available for those who need it, when they need it.”