Since April of last year, over 500,000 women in England have benefited from more affordable hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to manage menopause symptoms. This initiative, part of the government’s Women’s Health Strategy, has seen women save over £11 million in prescription costs over the past nine months.

The HRT prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) are a key component of this strategy, reducing the annual prescription cost to £19.30 for eligible HRT items such as patches, tablets, and topical preparations. Patients can use the HRT PPC as often as needed throughout the year, making HRT more financially accessible.

This effort aligns with the government’s commitment to enhancing menopause support for women. In addition to reducing costs, the government has addressed supply issues by collaborating with suppliers to meet rising demand for HRT.

Health and Social Care Secretary Victoria Atkins emphasizes the importance of improving healthcare access, stating that better access to HRT empowers women to manage their symptoms effectively.

Minister for Women’s Health Strategy Maria Caulfield underscores the need for personalized healthcare, recognizing that women may require different types of HRT to find what works best for them. By significantly lowering the cost of HRT, the government aims to ensure equitable access to treatment, enabling women to maintain their quality of life during menopause.

The establishment of women’s health hubs across local health areas will further enhance access to care, addressing various women’s health needs, including menopause care.

Professor Dame Lesley Regan, the Women’s Health Ambassador for England, celebrates the tangible impact of the Women’s Health Strategy, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing women’s health outcomes. The HRT PPC and women’s health hubs play vital roles in providing women with access to treatment and professional guidance for managing menopause symptoms effectively.

Looking ahead, NHS England is piloting new guidance to improve menopause care, with a focus on better recognition and treatment of symptoms.

Additionally, the government’s appointment of a Menopause Employment Champion and grant funding for charities reflects a broader commitment to supporting women’s reproductive health, including menopause, in the workplace. These efforts collectively aim to improve the lives of women experiencing menopause symptoms and ensure comprehensive support across various healthcare settings and workplaces.