Paul Donnelly (Dublin West, Sinn Fein)
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882. To ask the Minister for Health if there are plans to further roll out the free HRT scheme to men and others who use HRT for medical reasons. [32518/25]

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)
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At present, the current provision under this measure is for free HRT products for the treatment of menopause symptoms, given that HRT is the most commonly used treatment for managing menopause symptoms and has been shown to be the most effective intervention.

The new Free HRT Arrangement supports the Programme for Government commitment in “transforming women’s health” and supports our Women’s Health Action Plan 2024-2025 which spotlights health outcomes of women at midlife and older “living well and living longer”.

Through the Women’s Health Action Plans implemented over recent years, a range of significant developments are taking place in the area of menopause. These developments are focused on building capability and improving services at community level as well as developing the necessary specialist clinics. The actions include:

1. The appointment of a GP Clinical Lead for Women’s Health.
2. The development of training courses in Menopause for GPs and GP trainees via the Irish College of General Practitioners, to improve knowledge and understanding of menopause in the community care setting.
3. Evidence-based guidance support for GPs through the development of a Quick Reference Guide on Menopause.
4. A very successful National Menopause Awareness campaign which was accompanied by the launch of a dedicated webpage to provide trusted information for anyone affected by menopause in Ireland.
5. 6 specialist menopause clinics are now open for women who have complex experiences of menopause.
6. The removal of VAT from non-oral forms of HRT since 1 January 2023 has improved access for those who need it.
7. The development of the Civil Service Menopause in the Workplace Policy Framework.