Cork pharmacies sign up for free HRT scheme of ‘transformational' potential to women's health
HRT is a medicine-based treatment used to relieve symptoms of menopause and perimenopause.
Most pharmacies in Cork and nationwide have signed up to participate in the scheme, with the numbers increasing daily.
Cork North West TD John Paul O'Shea said 208 pharmacies in Cork will offer the free medication to women, which is 'extremely positive.'
'The majority of pharmacies across the country are now participating in the scheme, and this figure is increasingly daily, meaning that all women will be able to access this free medication in a pharmacy convenient for them.
'In Cork, already 208 pharmacies will offer the free medication to women, which is extremely positive.
'It's important to note that the new arrangement includes a pharmacy dispensing fee, so medication will be completely free,' he said.
Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill was commended by her party colleague Mr O'Shea, who said he was 'grateful' to the Minister for her role in the scheme.
'The symptoms women encounter during perimenopause and menopause are varied and women's lives can be hugely impacted
'HRT is such an important medicinal regime for women and can positively improve their lives and make daily living much easier.
'This scheme is transformational for women.
'I commend the pharmacies in Cork who have joined the scheme to continue to provide vital healthcare for their communities,' concluded Mr O' Shea.
Women who have been private patients and who wish to avail of this will need to possess a Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) card.
Medical card holders can continue to access HRT medication as normal – a DPS card is not necessary.
Women can find their nearest pharmacy to them that is providing the service via: https://www2.hse.ie/services/pharmacies-free-hrt/.
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