Cristin Hackel is an experienced nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience in OB/GYN offices in the United States and Japan. Currently, she serves as the medical director of Nurx Gynecological Services, where she oversees a large team of providers and ensures high-quality care delivery to over 500,000 active patients.
In a recent episode of Pharmacy Focus, Hackel discussed OTC contraception and the pharmacist’s role in reproductive health. She talked about the available OTC options such as condoms and emergency contraceptive pills, as well as the newly approved Opill. Hackel explained the differences in efficacy between OTC and prescription methods, highlighting 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 options.
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 has been instrumental in helping patients get access to quality healthcare services that meet their needs.
As medical director of Nurx Gynecological Services, Cristin oversees a large team of providers who work together to ensure that our patients receive high-quality care delivery.
Nurx provides easy access to gynecological services for women across the country through virtual consultations with licensed nurse practitioners or physician assistants who specialize in gynecology.
The company offers a wide range of services including routine checkups, birth control prescriptions, hormonal therapy prescriptions, menopause management prescriptions, pelvic pain management prescriptions