Policies challenge conscience rights of Oregon pharmacists, doctor

Published: 2006-07-18

PORTLAND, Ore. (CNS) -- A new policy of the Oregon Board of Pharmacy has prompted objections from pro-life supporters because it requires pharmacists who refuse to fill prescriptions for drugs such as the morning-after pill or medications used in assisted suicides to actively help a patient find a pharmacist who will dispense the drugs even if it violates their consciences. "Fully respecting the consciences of pharmacists should extend to respecting the professional ethical integrity not to refer for prescriptions which violate the conscience of the individual pharmacist," said Bob Castagna, executive director of the Oregon Catholic Conference. "Whether contained in administrative regulation or state statute, public policy should recognize that freedom of conscience is rooted in the federal and state constitutional protections of freedom of religion," he added. Pharmacists who fail to refer would be guilty of "unprofessional behavior," the board said in the new policy statement, approved June 7.

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