Pharmacy Contraception Service-Overview & Local Support
The Pharmacy Contraception Service (PCS) is an Advanced Service that enables accredited community pharmacists to:
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Initiate the supply of oral contraception (OC) to eligible patients under the guidance of NHS Patient Group Directions (PGDs)
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Provide ongoing monitoring and repeat supplies of OC, ensuring safe and convenient access to contraception in a community setting
- Provide oral emergency contraception
This service supports improved access to contraception, reduces pressure on GP services, and promotes patient choice and continuity of care.
About the NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service
What GPs and Sexual health clinics need to know
Pharmacy Owner Checklist – Implementing the Pharmacy Contraception Service
Getting Ready – PharmOutcomes screen shots
Pharmacy Registration for Service Provision
Oral Contraception – Leicestershire Prescribing Advice
LLR PODs Signposting Safeguarding Support
Poster Promoting the service including EHC
Skill Mix: Pharmacy Technicians to Deliver PCS
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From 29th October 2025 suitably trained and competent pharmacy technicians will be able to provide the service.
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This supports greater skill mix flexibility and helps manage workload pressures.
Implementation is subject to updates to the service specification and Secretary of State Directions — updates will follow once confirmed.
Addition of Drospirenone from 29th October 2025
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Drospirenone will be added to the PGD list for PCS.
Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC)
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From October 29th 2025, the existing pharmacy contraception service will be expanded to include EHC to the nationally commissioned service (subject to IT updates).
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Fee structure:
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£20 per consultation
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Plus reimbursement for the cost of the EHC medicine
- Familiarise yourself with the draft service specification, the patient group directions (PGD)
and the contents of this Community Pharmacy England Briefing;
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Work is ongoing to finalise this addition; updates will be shared when confirmed. Information can be accessed here Pharmacy Contraception Service (PCS) – Community Pharmacy England
Impact on Local EHC Services
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The national commissioning of EHC may result in the decommissioning of some local authority services, but this will be at the discretion of individual local authorities.
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Key concern: Local add-ons (e.g. STI kits, condom provision) may not be included in the national model — LPCs are engaging with local commissioners to seek continuation of these services.
- For local LLR Formulary information including 1st, 2nd and 3rd treatment choices click HERE
Benefits of the National EHC Service
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Wider and more equitable access: No restrictive patient eligibility criteria.
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Higher remuneration: Most pharmacies currently offering local services will receive better fees under the national model.
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Streamlined delivery: One consistent national pathway vs the variable models currently in place across England.
Other Helpful Resources
We will continue to share updates on service specification changes, PGD releases, and implementation timelines through our usual communication channels.