NHS England publishes emergency contraception data

NHS England has today published data showing that pharmacies have dispensed over 300,000 supplies of emergency contraception since the PCS was expanded in October (see NHS England press release).

This has been covered in a number of national media outlets (BBC and Independent) and we have issued a comment on it as follows:

Alastair Buxton, Director of NHS Services at Community Pharmacy England, said:

“Providing more than 300,000 supplies of free emergency contraception in just a matter of months shows the enormous demand for convenient, accessible healthcare through community pharmacies. This is a significant milestone and a clear demonstration of the value that pharmacies bring to local communities.

Through the Pharmacy Contraception Service (PCS), pharmacy teams are playing a vital role in supporting women’s health, while helping to reduce pressure on GPs and sexual health services. These figures are yet another reminder that when the NHS invests in community pharmacy, patients benefit.

We believe the Government should build on this success by developing the PCS into a more comprehensive women’s health service, such as through offering long-acting reversible contraception (e.g. injectable contraceptives) and menopause advice, with prescribing of HRT.”