Pharmacy policy would ensure filling of orders

The Washington State Board of Pharmacy could vote as early as today on policy changes that would allow patients to get prescriptions filled even if pharmacists are opposed to them for moral, religious or ethical reasons.

It's an issue that's been debated since 2004 when reports began circulating nationwide that pharmacists were refusing to fill some prescriptions -- primarily those for the so-called Plan B, a birth control measure that needs to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.

The latest proposals essentially would require pharmacies either to deliver legally prescribed drugs, or make sure customers could get the medication elsewhere in a timely manner.

The morning-after pill prevents ovulation by blocking an egg from implanting in the uterus. Opponents compare taking the pill to abortion, although many medical experts rebut that claim.

At a public hearing on the proposals Thursday, advocates and opponents appeared fairly evenly divided.

Proponents -- women with babies, a group of about 40 women in pink T-shirts proclaiming "Access Delayed is Healthcare Denied" and other advocates for women's health care -- were among about 200 people packed into the Renton Community Center for a public hearing.

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