In 2008, surveys were mailed to a random sample of 1264 pharmacists registered with the Florida Board of Pharmacy. Data from 272 pharmacists (22 % response rate) were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.
Fifty-six percent of respondents incorrectly answered that EC causes birth defects, and 46 % replied that it causes abortion. Only 22 % said that EC can be purchased in advance of need. Many felt uncomfortable dispensing to adolescents (61 % ) and men (58 % ). Knowledge about EC was the most important predictor of dispensing [odds ratio (OR)=1.57, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.22-2.03]. In particular, pharmacists who reported that EC does not act as an abortifacient were more likely to dispense it (OR=4.64, 95 % CI 2.15-10.00).
Correct information about EC was the most important predictor of pharmacists' dispensing EC. To expand availability of EC, pharmacists will have to become better informed.