Now is the perfect time for employers to discuss menopause support at work following the government’s announcement that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) costs will be cut in England, according to Peppy.
From 1 April 2023, women across the country will be able to access HRT for menopause more cheaply by using a new prescription prepayment certificate. The digital health service provider believes that the decision, which was revealed yesterday (21 February), presents a chance for businesses to talk about they can best help staff going through the menopause.
Kathy Abernethy, chief nursing officer and director of menopause services at Peppy, described the announcement as “a good opportunity for employers to recognise the importance of their role in providing this support and start the conversation in their organisation”.
She said: “Employers can play a pivotal role in providing access to specialist support through workplace health and wellbeing benefits, offering women a route to getting the vital advice and help they need. This can include access to expert support and guidance on how to manage symptoms day to day, options for treatment and what’s right for them, as well as support for wider health and wellbeing.
“Support needs to be provided by human menopause specialists and personalised for the individual’s specific needs.”
Welcoming the price cuts, Abernethy highlighted that cost should not prevent women from accessing the treatment they need. However, she believes HRT is “just one tool in the armoury for effectively supporting women through menopause”.
She added: “We know that while every woman will experience menopause, not all symptoms are the same – so providing a rounded support for women is really important.”
In England, around 15% of 45-64-year-old women are currently prescribed HRT. This was around 11% two years ago, demonstrating a rapid rise which is continuing.
