Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs About Two Models of Pharmacist-Prescribed Contraception in Central Appalachia
Abstract
Improving access to contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy remains a public health priority in central Appalachia where geographic, structural, and policy barriers may limit reproductive health care. Pharmacist-prescribed contraception (PPC) is an emerging strategy to potentially expand access; however, public awareness and acceptance of PPC services in this region is not well known. This study aims to assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding PPC in persons of childbearing potential in Appalachian counties of Tennessee and Virginia. The study will also evaluate the differences in perceived barriers between the two states as they both have authorized PPC but through differing policy models. The aims will be carried out through an electronic Qualtrics survey distributed using targeted social media advertisements across Meta platforms in a six-week recruitment period. Eligible participants include individuals age 18 and above, assigned female sex at birth, residing in Appalachian counties of Tennessee or Virginia. The survey will assess participants’ knowledge of various birth control options, if they have ever used prescription birth control, their thoughts on if pharmacists should prescribe birth control, and if they would be comfortable seeking birth control from their local pharmacist. It will also ask about general health information including whether they have a primary care physician, an established pharmacy they use, and if they have any barriers to receiving care. It is likely that many participants are not aware they can be prescribed birth control by a pharmacist in their area. The results of this study will be coupled with results from similar surveys that target pharmacists and medical providers to form a complete picture of PPC knowledge and utilization in the region. In central Appalachia, access to affordable reproductive health care is a major issue. With more PPC awareness and accessibility, there is potential for a significant impact on public health.
Start Time
15-4-2026 9:00 AM
End Time
15-4-2026 12:00 PM
Room Number
Culp Ballroom 316
Poster Number
36
Presentation Type
Poster
Presentation Subtype
Posters - Competitive
Presentation Category
Health
Student Type
Graduate and Professional Degree Students, Residents, Fellows
Faculty Mentor
Karilynn Dowling McClay
Public Knowledge, Attitudes, and Beliefs About Two Models of Pharmacist-Prescribed Contraception in Central Appalachia
Culp Ballroom 316
Improving access to contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy remains a public health priority in central Appalachia where geographic, structural, and policy barriers may limit reproductive health care. Pharmacist-prescribed contraception (PPC) is an emerging strategy to potentially expand access; however, public awareness and acceptance of PPC services in this region is not well known. This study aims to assess knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs regarding PPC in persons of childbearing potential in Appalachian counties of Tennessee and Virginia. The study will also evaluate the differences in perceived barriers between the two states as they both have authorized PPC but through differing policy models. The aims will be carried out through an electronic Qualtrics survey distributed using targeted social media advertisements across Meta platforms in a six-week recruitment period. Eligible participants include individuals age 18 and above, assigned female sex at birth, residing in Appalachian counties of Tennessee or Virginia. The survey will assess participants’ knowledge of various birth control options, if they have ever used prescription birth control, their thoughts on if pharmacists should prescribe birth control, and if they would be comfortable seeking birth control from their local pharmacist. It will also ask about general health information including whether they have a primary care physician, an established pharmacy they use, and if they have any barriers to receiving care. It is likely that many participants are not aware they can be prescribed birth control by a pharmacist in their area. The results of this study will be coupled with results from similar surveys that target pharmacists and medical providers to form a complete picture of PPC knowledge and utilization in the region. In central Appalachia, access to affordable reproductive health care is a major issue. With more PPC awareness and accessibility, there is potential for a significant impact on public health.
