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Provider Resources

Pharmacist Dispensed and OTC Contraception

The Pharmacy Practice Act allows licensed pharmacists who have completed the required training to dispense hormonal contraception without a prescription under a standing order. The standing order, required self-screening risk assessment tool and other materials are available on the Illinois Department of Public Health website.  

Customers can also get OTC contraception, including Opill and emergency contraception. Medicaid coverage is also available for OTC and pharmacist-dispensed contraception, and at-home pregnancy tests. Private health insurance coverage may vary. 

Provider Rights, Guidance, and Legal Protections

Illinois has passed several measures, including “shield” laws, to protect providers of reproductive and gender affirming health care that is lawful in this state.  These include, among others:  

  • licensing protections if threats to a license are based on care that is lawful in Illinois 

  • protections from subpoenas and summons regarding lawful healthcare 

  • protection from extradition 

  • allowing providers to countersue if a lawsuit is brought against them 

Illinois law also generally prohibits public entities and employees from cooperating with interstate investigations aiming to hold someone liable for seeking, receiving, facilitating, or providing reproductive health care services that are legal in Illinois. 

A lawyer can help you understand your rights and protections under these laws. If you are a provider and need legal help, you can contact the Abortion Defense Network for assistance. 

Hospital-Based Abortion Care

If your patient has a complex medical situation and needs abortion care in a hospital, the Complex Abortion Regional Line for Access can help access that care. 

Important Disclaimer

This website is for information only. It does not provide legal or medical advice. The resources listed here are intended to help individuals understand their rights and access care in the state of Illinois, but should not replace professional medical consultation or legal counsel.

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