Arizonans aged 18 and older can now access birth control medications without a doctor's prescription, thanks to a recent executive order by Governor Katie Hobbs. This initiative allows pharmacies to dispense self-administered contraceptives like hormonal and oral birth control, provided patients undergo a screening and blood pressure check. The governor's move aims to increase access to healthcare and reproductive freedom across the state. Over 20 other states have similar regulations in place, permitting pharmacists to provide FDA-approved hormonal contraceptives without prescriptions.
This action follows Governor Hobbs' June executive order limiting prosecutors' ability to pursue charges related to legally performed abortions. She has also expressed intentions to back legislation next year that would further secure access to birth control.
