Where a person acquires emergency contraception determines whether they pay full out-of-pocket prices, a wholesale manufacturing rate, or nothing. The table below outlines real-world price variations across major consumer touchpoints.
| Distribution Channel | Product Type | Average Out-of-Pocket Cost | Access Speed & Prescription Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Chain Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid) | Plan B One-Step (Brand) | $40, $50 | Immediate off-the-shelf purchase; no prescription needed |
| Discount Retailers & Big-Box (Target, Walmart) | Generics (Take Action, My Way, Equate) | $15, $35 | Immediate off-the-shelf purchase; stock varies by location |
| Direct-to-Consumer Digital Services (AfterPill, Nurx) | Generic Levonorgestrel | $11, $25 (plus shipping) | 2, 5 business days; suitable for advance home stocking only |
| Campus Health Vending Machines | Generic Levonorgestrel | $7, $15 | Immediate 24/7 automated access; student or guest payment |
| Title X Family Planning Clinics & FQHCs | Levonorgestrel or Ella (Ulipristal) | $0, $15 (Sliding scale) | Requires clinic visit during open operational hours |
| Insured Retail via Pharmacist Prescribing | Brand or Generic | $0 (ACA mandate) | Same-day counter billing; limited to states authorizing pharmacist standing orders |
