UK Health Secretary blocks bid to give girls ECPs in advance

ByCristina Puig

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommended in draft guidance proposed in 2010 that doctors, nurses, and pharmacies should “ensure all young women are able to obtain free emergency hormonal contraception, including advance provision.”  The recommendation has been on the Health Secretary’s desk since the Spring but he has not yet given it approval over concerns that NICE has not provided any evidence that the move would bring down unwanted pregnancies.

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