Expert Nurse Practitioner Cristin Hackel Interviewed on Pharmacy Focus Discusses OTC Contraception and Pharmacist’s Role in Reproductive Health

Cristin Hackel, an experienced nurse practitioner with a background in OB/GYN offices in the United States and Japan, has over 25 years of experience in providing patient care and overseeing a large team of providers. Currently serving as the medical director of Nurx Gynecological Services, Hackel ensures timely and high-quality care for Nurx’s 500,000 active patients. In a recent episode of Pharmacy Focus, Hackel was interviewed about OTC contraception and the pharmacist’s role in reproductive health.

The conversation touched on available OTC options like condoms and emergency contraceptive pills, as well as the newly approved Opill. Hackel explained the differences in efficacy between OTC and prescription methods, highlighting the importance of accessibility and self-screening with OTC options. She also emphasized the role of pharmacists in promoting education and awareness of contraceptive options within their communities.

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 important role pharmacists play in promoting education and awareness of contraceptive options.