Over-the-counter birth control pills available at no cost with NC Medicaid

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Governor Roy Cooper joined state health leaders inside a Chapel Hill Walgreens to announce that the over-the-counter birth control pill, Opill, will be free to people who use NC Medicaid starting August 1st.

“Family planning is such an important part of public health,” Governor Cooper said.

Dr. Angela Smith, with NC Medicaid, added, “There’s no worry of the out-of-pocket cost. There is no co-pay, so essentially within a few minutes, she can walk in and walk out with up to three months of oral contraceptive pills at no cost.”

The pills, which normally run $20 for a month’s supply or $50 for 3 months, are available at most pharmacies and can be purchased over-the-counter without a prescription.

State leaders said easy and free access to contraception is especially important for people who live in rural areas or cannot get quick access to medical appointments.

“Sometimes it’s difficult to get prescriptions for birth control pills. Now, with Opill, they’re able to come get it over the counter,” Governor Cooper said. “This gives people the reproductive freedom and family planning options that they need.”

Medicaid recently expanded in North Carolina, and state leaders say having Medicaid cover the cost of these birth control pills can improve the health of mothers and babies.

“About 50 percent of pregnancies are unintended,” noted state health director, Dr. Elizabeth Cuervo Tilson. “We can all agree that having intended pregnancies is best for children, so people have the tools or the resources they need to intend their pregnancies, plan their pregnancies for better outcomes for the family and the children.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com.