State-by-State Access to Abortion Pills at CVS and Walgreens: Understanding Costs, Telehealth Options, and Alternatives
With major pharmacy chains like CVS and Walgreens now dispensing abortion pills, access to reproductive care is becoming more convenient in many U.S. states. However, availability depends on state laws, and other factors like cost and alternatives play a role in determining which option is best for each individual.
States Where CVS and Walgreens Offer Abortion Pills
As of now, CVS and Walgreens are certified to dispense mifepristone, the first of two pills used in a medication abortion, in over 20 states. These include:
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia (D.C.)
- Hawaii
- Illinois
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
In these states, patients can obtain abortion pills following a telehealth consultation with a certified healthcare provider. These consultations often allow the prescription to be sent directly to a CVS or Walgreens location for pick-up, offering patients a quick, convenient way to access abortion care. Both pharmacies follow strict FDA Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) guidelines to ensure safe dispensing.
The Legal Landscape
While the FDA has approved the dispensing of mifepristone through certified retail pharmacies, state laws ultimately dictate whether CVS and Walgreens can offer abortion pills. For example, states like California and New York, which have strong legal protections for abortion, allow pharmacies to dispense mifepristone. However, in more restrictive states like Texas and Missouri, laws have limited or completely banned access to medication abortion, preventing CVS and Walgreens from stocking the pills.
Costs of Abortion Pills
The cost of abortion pills varies based on insurance coverage, state Medicaid programs, and out-of-pocket expenses:
- Without Insurance: Abortion pills generally range from $300 to $800.
- With Insurance: Many private insurance plans and Medicaid programs in states like California cover the cost of medication abortion. For those eligible for Medi-Cal in California, the service may be fully or partially covered, making it highly affordable or even free.
Comparison: Medication Abortion vs. Surgical Abortion
Here’s how abortion pills compare to surgical abortion:
Medication Abortion (Abortion Pills)
- Cost: Typically more affordable than surgical abortion.
- Availability: Effective up to 10 weeks of pregnancy.
- Process: The abortion takes place over 24 to 48 hours at home, involving two medications (mifepristone and misoprostol).
- Privacy: Provides more discretion, as it can be done at home, with some pharmacies offering drive-through pick-up for added privacy.
Surgical Abortion
- Cost: More expensive, ranging from $600 to $2,500, depending on the stage of pregnancy.
- Availability: Available later in pregnancy, often up to 24 weeks.
- Process: A medical professional performs the procedure in a clinic, and it’s typically completed in one visit.
- Recovery: Usually quicker, with minimal bleeding compared to medication abortion.
The Role of Telehealth and Pharmacy Pick-Up
Telehealth consultations play a key role in making medication abortion more accessible. In states where mifepristone is legally available, patients can consult with a healthcare provider from the privacy of their home, receive their prescription, and pick up the medication at their local CVS or Walgreens. Both pharmacies emphasize patient privacy and safety, adhering to FDA REMS requirements. Some locations also offer drive-through pick-up, providing a discreet way to obtain the medication.
6. Walgreens and CVS Policies on Mifepristone
Walgreens: In response to FDA approval, Walgreens has begun a phased rollout of mifepristone in over 20 states. The pharmacy chain is working closely with certified prescribers to ensure safe and compliant dispensing under the REMS program. Walgreens emphasizes a patient-first approach, ensuring privacy and access to care in states where it’s legally permissible(
CVS: CVS is also dispensing mifepristone in states where it is allowed by law. CVS follows the same REMS guidelines, ensuring that only certified prescribers issue the prescription. CVS aims to expand access to abortion pills while prioritizing privacy and timely care(
Final Thoughts
State-by-state access to abortion pills at CVS and Walgreens marks a significant step toward greater reproductive healthcare accessibility. However, state laws still dictate where and how this access is available. In states with strong protections for abortion, like California and New York, patients benefit from timely and affordable access to medication abortions through retail pharmacies. Costs are generally lower for medication abortion than surgical options, especially when covered by Medicaid or private insurance. With the added convenience of telehealth and drive-through pick-up, patients can access care with greater privacy and convenience.
For more detailed information on Walgreens’ mifepristone access, visit the Walgreens Mifepristone Resource Hub, and for CVS’ mifepristone services, check the CVS Mifepristone Dispensing FAQ.