Iowa House Bill HF605

Iowa 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/26/25
• Refer: 2/26/25

Caption

A bill for an act relating to the prescribing and dispensing of self-administered hormonal contraceptives.

Impact

The bill potentially alters the landscape of contraceptive access by allowing pharmacists to dispense hormonal contraceptives without needing a prior appointment or prescription from a physician. This move is believed to increase the availability of contraceptives for patients, particularly in underserved areas where access to healthcare may be limited. Furthermore, it amends existing healthcare policies to require insurance coverage for these self-administered contraceptives, thereby aligning state law with the goal of improved reproductive health services.

Summary

House File 605 aims to enhance access to self-administered hormonal contraceptives by allowing pharmacists to dispense these medications under a standing order established by the medical director of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The bill grants immunity to pharmacists and medical directors from civil or criminal liability as long as actions taken under these provisions are in good faith. The bill also mandates that pharmacists complete training and collect a self-screening risk assessment from patients prior to dispensing contraceptives, ensuring a measure of patient safety.

Contention

While proponents of HF605 argue that it simplifies the process of obtaining contraceptives and promotes women's health autonomy, opponents may express concerns regarding the adequacy of pharmacist training and the potential risks of patients self-managing their contraceptive needs without comprehensive medical oversight. The balance between increasing accessibility and ensuring thorough medical guidance is a key point of contention in discussions surrounding this bill.