Keighley and Ilkley MP Robbie Moore has welcomed new government support for women experiencing menopause symptoms.
From 1 April 2023, women prescribed Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), the main treatment for menopause symptoms, will have access to a new scheme enabling access to a year’s worth of menopause prescription items for the cost of 2 single prescription charges (currently £18.70).
As part of a government commitment to reduce the cost of HRT for menopausal women, a new prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) will be rolled out for women across Keighley and Ilkley - valid for 12 months.
The certificate can be used against a list of HRT prescription items, and a patient can use this against an unlimited number of HRT items, including patches, tablets and topical preparations.
Local MP Robbie Moore welcomed the announcement, stating that cost had been a “significant barrier” to accessing HRT “for far too long” and calling the government support a “huge step forward”.
Robbie Moore MP said:
“From my discussions with constituents and women’s health groups across Keighley and Ilkley, it is clear that cost has been a significant barrier to accessing menopause treatment for far too long.
It is therefore fantastic to see the government delivering on its Women’s Health Strategy by taking real action to make HRT more affordable, with this support meaning women across our area experiencing menopause symptoms will now have access to a full year's HRT for under £20 per year.
This news is a huge step forward step forward and I look forward to further announcements from the government on their Women’s Health Strategy.”
Minister for Women Maria Caufield said:
“Around three quarters of women will experience menopause symptoms, with a 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.”
