New York State Department of Health Recognizes First Pharmacy Chain to Dispense Prescription Mifepristone
Walgreens Completed the Food and Drug Administration Certification to Dispense Mifepristone With A Prescription
Availability of Prescription Medication Abortion Options in Pharmacies Further Protects Reproductive Health Care Rights
ALBANY, N.Y. (March 6, 2024) – The New York State Department of Health today informs New Yorkers that Walgreens, one of the biggest national pharmacy chains, will dispense the abortion medication, Mifepristone, with a prescription in New York State.
"The availability of medication abortion options in a major chain pharmacy is another step toward protecting reproductive rights," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "Abortion care remains safe and legal in New York State and the Department will continue to protect access to medication abortion and contraception."
Walgreens completed the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) certification process to dispense Mifepristone, with a prescription starting in New York State, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, California, and Illinois. CVS Pharmacy chain also completed the FDA certification process and will dispense the medication in two states, Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Both chains have indicated intent to expand to more states where medication abortion remains legal.
Mifepristone is a drug that blocks a hormone called progesterone that is needed for a pregnancy to continue. Walgreens has provided a Mifepristone Resource Hub, which includes frequently asked questions and other resources.
Under New York State Public Health Law (§ 2599-BB), abortion is legal in the State of New York when a patient, "is within twenty-four weeks from the commencement of pregnancy, or there is an absence of fetal viability, or the abortion is necessary to protect the patient's life or health."
New York State remains a safe haven for anyone seeking an abortion, including those who travel from out of state in need of this important reproductive health care service. In June 2023, Governor Hochul signed legislation to shield New York doctors who prescribe medication abortion across state lines.
In New York, there are policies in place to safeguard people seeking, receiving, and administering abortion care. To read more on the legislation, visit the following resources:
- NYS legislators pass bills strengthening abortion access
- Abortion is still your choice in New York state
All New York State comprehensive insurance programs – Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, and Qualified Health Plans – cover abortion services. This coverage includes coverage of drugs prescribed for the purpose of an abortion.
