Free Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is now available for anyone with a prescription and a Drugs Payment Scheme card in Cork and Kerry. Participating pharmacies can be found located via the new Pharmacy Finder available on the HSE website.
Dr Máire Cleary, Advanced Menopause Specialist, HSE South West said:
“This is an extremely important and very welcome development which will remove financial barriers to access HRT.
“Hormone replacement therapy is the most effective treatment to manage troublesome perimenopause and menopause symptoms, and it can also work to reduce the risk of both osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. This is a hugely significant step forward for women’s health in Ireland.”
Dr Cliona Murphy, National Clinical Director, HSE National Women and Infants Health Programme, said:
“Every woman goes through menopause, but for some, the symptoms can be debilitating. HRT is a medicine-based treatment which can really improve the quality of life for people experiencing symptoms. HRT helps to balance and replace the hormones that your body no longer produces in the same way.
“We really welcome the fact that HRT is now free for women who need it, giving people more choice in their healthcare. The decision to take HRT should be made in consultation with your doctor.”
To avail of free HRT, you will need to register for a Drugs Payment Scheme card. Apply for the Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) online. You will need:
- full name
- date of birth
- sex
- PPS number
- contact details
For further information on the pharmacy finder, drugs payment card or HRT, please see HSE.ie
Last updated on: 04 / 06 / 2025
