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10th January 2025
10:45am GMT
The Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU) and the Department of Health are in a dispute over who is to blame for the setback.
In November, Health Minister Stephen Donnelly announced that legislation had passed to allow the scheme to begin in January 2025. However, the rollout has stalled due to unresolved issues.
The IPU claims significant gaps, including the absence of a finalised list of covered medications, proper guidance, and a tested IT system, all of which all make it impossible for pharmacies to implement the scheme.
It has criticised the Department of Health and the HSE for failing to engage properly with pharmacists to address their concerns.
The Department of Health, however, argues that a lack of transparency from pharmacists over their professional fees is contributing to the delay.
Internal documents, seen by RTE’s Prime Time, suggest officials believe some pharmacists are reluctant to disclose fees charged for dispensing medication, which can cost up to €10 per item.
In response, the Department has committed to fixing the issues and introducing the scheme "as soon as possible."
The IPU has proposed combining the free HRT scheme with the existing free contraception program to create an integrated women’s health service.
The National Women’s Council has backed this call, urging the government to cover GP visits and pharmacy fees, as is done in the contraception scheme.
Dr. Caoimhe Hartley, Clinical Lead at the Rotunda Complex Menopause Clinic, warned that the uncertainty surrounding the scheme adds unnecessary complications for women already facing HRT shortages.
Global supply issues, particularly for HRT patches like Estradot, are expected to continue through 2025 due to manufacturing constraints. However, manufacturers of gel-based HRT products, such as Oestrogel, report stable supplies.
Opposition parties have also criticised the delay. Sinn Féin labeled the rollout a "cynical announcement" made before the election, while the Social Democrats condemned the "needless bickering" between the Department and the IPU.
As shortages and disputes continue, women looking for relief from menopause symptoms face ongoing challenges with no clear date for clarity.
