Cristin Hackel, a highly experienced nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience in OB/GYN offices in the United States and Japan, recently discussed OTC contraception and the pharmacist’s role in reproductive health on Pharmacy Focus. Currently serving as the medical director of Nurx Gynecological Services, Hackel oversees a large team of providers and ensures high-quality care delivery to over 500,000 active patients.
In her discussion, Hackel highlighted the available OTC options such as condoms and emergency contraceptive pills, as well as the newly approved Opill. She explained the differences in efficacy between OTC and prescription methods, emphasizing how OTC options can increase accessibility but require self-screening.
Hackel also addressed the potential public health benefits of improved access to contraception and its impact on reproductive rights. She emphasized the importance of pharmacists in promoting education and awareness of contraception options within their communities. This includes stocking OTC products and being knowledgeable to advise patients on contraceptive choices.
Key takeaways from the discussion include the approval of Opill as the first OTC oral contraceptive pill in 2023. While OTC options may have lower efficacy compared to prescription methods, they offer improved accessibility without requiring a provider visit. Increased access to contraception can lead to positive public health outcomes by reducing risks associated with unintended pregnancy. Pharmacists have a crucial role in stocking OTC options, promoting education, and advising patients about their contraceptive choices.
Cristin joined Nurx in 2017 and has been providing direct patient care in her role ever since. Her expertise in OB/GYN care has enabled her to effectively manage complex cases for patients seeking services from Nurx Gynecological Services.
Nurx Gynecological Services offers a range of gynecological services including virtual consultations with licensed physicians, medication therapy management, testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), hormonal testing for menopause management, fertility treatments for women who wish to conceive naturally or through assisted reproductive technology (ART). The company is committed to providing accessible healthcare services that are convenient for patients who may not have easy access to traditional healthcare settings.
Overall, Cristin Hackel’s experience working with Nurx Gynecological Services has provided her with valuable insights into how telemedicine can be used to provide effective healthcare services while improving patient outcomes. With more than 50 million Americans struggling with affordable healthcare access issues, companies like Nurx are paving the way towards a future where everyone can receive quality healthcare services regardless of their location or financial situation.
In conclusion, Cristin Hackel is an experienced nurse practitioner who has played an important role at Nurx Gynecological Services since joining the company in 2017. Her expertise in OB/GYN care has enabled her to effectively manage complex cases for patients seeking services from Nurx Gynecological Services. As more people struggle with affordable healthcare access issues across America, companies like Nurx are paving the way towards a future where everyone can receive quality healthcare services regardless of their location or financial situation.