Preparing future pharmacists to identify and address intimate partner violence (IPV) in pharmacy practice

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a widespread public health issue impacting almost half of individuals in the United States during their lifetime. Pharmacists’ accessibility in communities and expanding provision of comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services, including new over-the-counter contraception options, positions them to screen for IPV and connect patients to resources. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends regular screening for IPV and reproductive coercion, especially when engaging patients in sexual and reproductive health services, which are expanding within pharmacies. A review of statewide protocols for pharmacist-prescribed contraception and pharmacist-initiated HIV pre- and postexposure prophylaxis found growing inclusion of IPV considerations for pharmacists to follow. This signals a precedent for integrating screening and referral practices more broadly. Pharmacists, however, typically do not receive comprehensive education on recognizing IPV or supporting affected individuals. To address this gap, schools and colleges of pharmacy should embed IPV training into existing curricula. This includes recognizing signs of abuse, conducting routine screenings, and making informed referrals. Such education aligns with the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education 2025 Standards and supports the development of advocacy-oriented pharmacists.