Around 400,000 women will have access to cheaper Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) through a new Government scheme.
From April 1, women prescribed HRT as part of menopause treatment will be able to access a year’s worth of treatment for just under £20.
Under the plan, women will be able to use a pre-payment certificate against a list of HRT prescription items.
This will include patches, tablets and topical preparations, with no limit on how many times the pre-payment certificate can be used while valid.
The certificate will be valid for 12 months.
Around 15 per cent of women aged 45-64 in England are currently prescribed HRT, according to the Department of Health.
Women will be able to apply for the certificate through the NHS businesses service authority or in person at a registered pharmacy.
Minister for Women Maria Caulfield said: “Around three-quarters of women will experience menopause symptoms, with one-quarter experiencing severe symptoms, which can seriously impact their quality of life.
“Reducing the cost of HRT is a huge moment for improving women’s health in this country, and I am proud to be announcing this momentous step forward.
“In our Women’s Health Strategy, we made menopause a top priority – by making HRT more accessible, we’re delivering on our commitment to women.”
Dame Lesley Regan, the Government’s women’s health ambassador, said: “Making HRT more affordable will have a hugely beneficial impact on the lives of so many women.
“This pre-payment certificate is a major step forward in prioritising the health and wellbeing of women.”
Dr Ranee Thakar, president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: “We know that cost can be one of the barriers that women face in accessing treatment to manage their symptoms during menopause, and the introduction of HRT pre-payment certificates is a positive step to improve access to HRT.
“This announcement is an important first step, and we hope that more will be done to address the challenges and inequalities faced in accessing menopause care and treatment.”
