Federal Legislation Raises the Price of
Contraceptives for Students
Many prescription contraceptives used by college students will now cost more, due to passage of the Federal Deficit Reduction Act (DRA) of 2005* by the US Congress.
Pharmaceutical companies previously provided “nominal” or low-cost pricing to the SHCC and many other college health services nationwide. This new DRA legislation required the cancellation of those contracts in January 1, 2007. Although prices have increased significantly, the SHCC Pharmacy is still able to provide most medications at a lower rate than regular retail pharmacies. The SHCC remains strongly committed to provide the highest quality and most affordable medications to UF students.
The SHCC realizes that this price increase may be a hardship for many students. You may want to talk with your medical provider about switching to a generic or less expensive product. Generics are as safe and effective as brand-name medications. The SHCC pharmacy is also pleased to offer a few oral contraceptives at a discounted price. Feel free to call the pharmacy or your medical provider for further information on low cost contraceptive options.
*Title VI, Subtitle A of the DRA of 2005 states that only 340B entities, intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded, state-owned or operated nursing facilities, or any other facility or entity deemed a safety net provider by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, will be eligible for nominal pricing from the manufacturers.
