Social Democrats TD Pádraig Rice has welcomed the Minister for Health’s acceptance that a dispensing fee should be covered as part of the delayed free HRT scheme – but has criticised the government’s questionable handling of the issue.
Deputy Rice, who is the party’s health spokesperson, said:
“Despite the Minister setting a target today for a June 1 starting date for the roll-out of free HRT, there is still major uncertainty about pharmacy participation.
“Negotiating with pharmacies over the airwaves – as she appeared to be doing today – is no way to do business.
“The Minister must work constructively with community pharmacists to ensure that they can participate in the scheme, and that free HRT is available and accessible to all who need it.
“The Government must also strongly consider reimbursing women for any HRT costs they have incurred since the scheme’s originally intended start date of January 1, 2025.”
April 15, 2025