Why is Ireland’s Free HRT scheme delayed?
In recent years, Ireland has made notable strides in women's healthcare, particularly concerning menopause support. A notable development is the government's initiative to provide free hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to women experiencing menopause (our Founder & CEO Loretta Dignam was instrumental with her campaign). This move, announced in Budget 2025, aims to alleviate the financial burden associated with HRT, which can cost between €30 and €70 per month, potentially saving women up to €840 annually.
The free HRT scheme was scheduled to commence in January 2025. However, as of mid-January, the rollout has encountered significant delays. The Department of Health has retracted its initial commitment to launch the scheme this month, leading to criticism from various stakeholders. The Irish Pharmacy Union and the Irish Medical Organisation have highlighted significant issues with the proposed implementation, expressing concerns over the lack of clarity and preparedness.
One of the primary concerns is that, under the current plans, while HRT medications will be free, the cost of the necessary general practitioner (GP) consultations to obtain a prescription will not be covered. This means that women may still face financial barriers when accessing HRT, as GP visit fees can be substantial.
The delay has been described as a "slap in the face for thousands of women" who were anticipating the scheme's benefits. Advocacy groups and healthcare professionals are urging the government to address the logistical challenges promptly and to consider covering associated GP costs to ensure comprehensive access to menopause care.
Despite these setbacks, the initiative reflects a positive shift towards prioritising women's health in Ireland. The National Women's Council has welcomed the announcement, describing it as a game-changer for women. Additionally, the establishment of six specialist menopause clinics underscores the government's commitment to enhancing support for women during menopause
While the free HRT scheme represents a significant advancement in women's healthcare in Ireland, its successful implementation requires addressing current delays and ensuring that all associated costs, including GP consultations, are considered. This will ensure that the initiative fulfills its promise of providing accessible and comprehensive menopause care to all women in Ireland.
We understand the frustration this situation must be causing for many women who rely on HRT or are considering starting treatment. The uncertainty surrounding the scheme’s rollout can undoubtedly be distressing, particularly when combined with the already challenging symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. This initiative is one we are deeply invested in, and we remain committed to supporting women through this transition. We will continue to advocate for clarity and accessibility while keeping you updated on any progress.
In the meantime, if you are struggling with the often debilitating effects of menopause, we strongly encourage you to speak to your healthcare provider or visit one of our menopause specialists. Our clinics are self-referral, meaning no GP visit or referral is necessary, allowing you to access support more quickly and conveniently.