Objectives
To determine Saskatchewan pharmacists' opinions and beliefs towards pharmacist prescribing of hormonal contraceptives.

Methods
We conducted an online survey of practicing pharmacists in Saskatchewan. The survey contained 22 questions which explored beliefs and opinions in four content areas related to prescribing hormonal contraception: acceptability and/or appropriateness; personal confidence and comfort level; prescribing caveats; and, perceived benefits and barriers. A descriptive analysis of the responses was conducted and response frequency distributions compiled.

Results
The survey was distributed to 1579 pharmacists; 270 (17.1%) completed some or all survey questions. Of the respondents, 68.6% were female and 31.4% male. Approximately 75% of respondents indicated hormonal contraception should be available as a Schedule II or III product. Over 75% of respondents agreed patient demand for pharmacist prescribing of hormonal contraception would be high. Approximately 70% agreed additional training would be required in order to prescribe hormonal contraception, with more than 50% strongly agreeing that additional training should be mandatory. Over 60% believed age restrictions would be important for prescribing hormonal contraception, with the majority suggesting patients should be at least 16 years old. More than 80% of respondents indicated both benefits and barriers to pharmacist prescribing of hormonal contraception. The greatest benefits identified were fewer unintended pregnancies and reduced costs to the healthcare system, while the greatest barriers were resistance from other health care professionals and lack of time.

Conclusion
The majority of respondents believe that, with additional training, pharmacist prescribing of hormonal contraception is appropriate. An estimated 40% of pregnancies in Canada are unintended, resulting in significant burden to the woman, the healthcare system, and society. Pharmacist prescribing of hormonal contraception would increase access to contraception, potentially reducing some of these burdens.