Pharmac’s decision to fund both Estradiol TDP Mylan and
Estradot hormone replacement (HRT) patches is an important
outcome for rural women, says Rural Women New Zealand
(RWNZ).
“This is a meaningful decision for women,
including many in rural areas, concerned about losing access
to the menopause treatment that works best for them,” says
National President Sandra
Matthews.
“Every woman’s experience of
menopause is different. The initial decision to fund only
one brand of patches left many women feeling unsupported and
ignored. It is encouraging to see Pharmac listening to
public feedback and responding with a more inclusive
approach that restores choice to women managing
menopause.”
It is slightly
disappointing, however that due to ongoing supply
constraints, Pharmac has not been able to extend dispensing
quantities beyond monthly scripts.
“For rural women
living far from pharmacies, accessing the patches they need
monthly places a frequent burden on their time and
travel,” says Matthews.
“We encourage Pharmac to
keep working with suppliers to address these issues and
improve equity of access for those in more remote parts of
the
country.”
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