Expert Insights: Nurse Practitioner Cristin Hackel Discusses OTC Contraception and the Vital Role of Pharmacists in Reproductive Health

Cristin Hackel is a seasoned nurse practitioner with extensive experience in OB/GYN offices across the United States and Japan. Currently serving as the medical director of Nurx Gynecological Services, she provides patient care and oversees a team of healthcare professionals. With over 25 years of expertise, Hackel ensures timely and top-notch care for Nurx’s 500,000 active patients.

Recently, Hackel was featured on Pharmacy Focus, where she discussed OTC contraception and the role of pharmacists in reproductive health. The conversation delved into various OTC options such as condoms and emergency contraceptive pills, as well as the newly approved Opill. Hackel highlighted the differences in effectiveness between OTC and prescription methods while emphasizing the importance of accessibility and self-screening with OTC options.

The discussion also explored the public health benefits of increased access to contraception and its impact on reproductive rights. Hackel underscored the crucial role pharmacists play in promoting education and awareness about contraceptive options within their communities. By stocking OTC products and being knowledgeable advisors to patients, pharmacists play a vital part in ensuring individuals have access to contraception and are empowered to make informed choices about their reproductive health.

Key takeaways from the interview include the approval of Opill as the first OTC oral contraceptive pill, the lower efficacy of OTC options compared to prescription methods, the positive impact of increased access to contraception on public health outcomes, and the essential role pharmacists play in promoting education and awareness about contraceptive options.