22-05-2025
Illinois pharmacists could soon dispense Ella emergency contraceptive without a doctor's prescription
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Illinoisans could soon have access to emergency birth control straight from pharmacists — and no prescription would be needed from a doctor.
The Illinois Senate Executive Committee passed a bill to update the state's Pharmacy Practice Act. This would let pharmacists in Illinois dispense the emergency contraceptive ulipristal acetate — more commonly known as Ella — and other non-hormonal options as a way to prevent pregnancy.
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Legislative chair for the Illinois section of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Dr. Michelle Brown said the pill works faster.
'Ella is effective four more days after unprotected intercourse than Plan B,' Brown said. 'It works better for patients with higher BMIs and is effective 95% of the time, compared with 89% for Plan B.'
Ella works by delaying ovulation. Right now, Illinoisans can get Plan B over the counter, but to get Ella, a doctor has to prescribe it under the current law.
Sen. Rachel Ventura (D-Joliet), who took charge of the House bill in the Senate, said this would make it easier for people eligible to access emergency contraception when they need it.
'Women come in all shapes and sizes so it only stands to reason that medication should be tailored to them as needed,' Ventura said. 'By allowing pharmacists to prescribe all types of contraceptives, including non-hormonal options, this bill aims to improve access so that every individual can make the best choice for birth control.'
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Pharmacists can also provide other contraceptives, including Phexxi and Plan B, for people who prefer different hormonal contraception. Still, they would need a standing order from the state's Public Health Director to give out Ella, similar to giving out flu shots.
The pharmacist will also be reimbursed 85% of what the doctor would pay for contraception services. To receive the payment, pharmacists must be enrolled in the state's Medicaid system as ordering and referring providers.
It passed the committee with seven votes in favor and three against. It has already passed the House and is now headed to the Senate floor for further debate.
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