A major expansion in access to abortion medication has been documented in Australia, with nearly twice as many pharmacies now stocking MS-2 Step following regulatory changes in 2023. Researchers analyzing the shift—triggered by the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s decision to allow broader GP prescribing—highlight how deregulation may improve both speed and safety in reproductive healthcare. The findings, published in JAMA Network Open, suggest the policy adjustments could reshape how abortion services are delivered nationwide. The study underscores growing evidence that relaxed restrictions may reduce barriers for patients seeking this form of care.
The number of pharmacies stocking the MS-2 Step medication increased from 2,228 to 4,107 after rules relaxed in 2023Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe number of Australian pharmacies stocking an abortion pill increased by almost 50% when prescribing restrictions were relaxed, with researchers saying the findings suggest deregulation of abortion promotes safer and faster healthcare.A study published in the medical journal JAMA Network Open on Thursday examined the impact of changes by the Therapeutic Goods Administration in 2023 which meant the medication, MS-2 Step, could be prescribed by any GP. Continue reading...
