Pharmacy Contraception Service (PCS)

The Pharmacy Contraception Service is an NHS-commissioned advanced service that enables community pharmacies to provide ongoing supply and initiation of oral contraception. This service is designed to improve access to contraception, reduce pressure on GP practices and sexual health clinics, and support health inequalities by offering a convenient alternative for patients seeking contraception advice and prescriptions.

Key Features of the Service

  • Ongoing Supply: Patients can receive repeat supplies of their oral contraception from participating pharmacies without needing to visit their GP.
  • Initiation of Oral Contraception: Since December 2023, pharmacists can prescribe the contraceptive pill for first-time users via a Patient Group Direction (PGD), allowing individuals to access contraception directly from their pharmacy.
  • Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC): From October 2025, the service will expand to include EHC consultations, further enhancing pharmacy-led sexual health support.
  • Referral Pathways: Patients can self-refer or be referred by GPs, sexual health clinics, or other healthcare providers. Pharmacists may also proactively identify suitable patients for the service.
  • Professional Training: Pharmacists offering the service must demonstrate competence in contraception management, ensuring safe and effective patient care.

Benefits for Pharmacy Teams

  • Increased Consultation Fees: As of April 2025, the consultation fee for both initiation and repeat supplies has increased to £25, reflecting the time and expertise required.
  • Expanded Skill Mix: Soon, trained pharmacy technicians will also be able to provide the service, supporting workforce flexibility.
  • Improved Patient Access: The service integrates with existing NHS pathways, ensuring confidential consultations and wider healthcare access for vulnerable communities.

This service strengthens the role of community pharmacies in sexual health provision, offering accessible, high-quality contraception support while alleviating pressure on primary care services.

 

Resources:

For NHS England’s publication – Contraception and Why it Matters: NHS England » NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service This website also links to the Service Specifications and Patient Group Directions.

For further overview with updates from the Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework – Community Pharmacy England has a wealth of information and resources: Pharmacy Contraception Service (PCS) – Community Pharmacy England