Walgreens and Reproductive Choice review: Condoms

I am a physician and was horrified to learn today of a Walgreen's employee who refused to ring up condoms for a woman based on his "religious beliefs." This employee has every right under the Constitution to practice the religion of his choice. However, if one choses to work in healthcare, the employee and the company has the ethical obligation to provide this care to those all seeking it without judgement.

I applaud the woman for standing her ground in securing her purchase through the manager. How many women, however, would feel judged or embarrassed as the line builds behind her and simply leaves without the condoms resulting in risk for unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease.

As an oncologist and bioethicist, I am provided with a bit of a bully pulpit to address such ethical issues on a larger stage. Until such time that the Walgreen's Corporation becomes more enlightened, each time a patient requests a prescription be sent to Walgreens, I will open a discussion with him or her encouraging the choice of an alternative pharmacy.