Health Minister Sajid Javid has announced that Madelaine McTernan will lead the new HRT working group. It is hoped that lessons learned from the rapid delivery of millions of coronavirus vaccines across the UK can be applied to shortages of HRT products, according to the Department of Health and Human Services (DHSC). McTernan said: “We will apply the key lessons from the successful way in which the Vaccine Working Group procured vaccines that save lives during the pandemic to ensure that women have reliable continued access to these critical medicines.” The move comes as demand for HRT products in the UK has increased in recent years due to increased awareness of menopause and doctor’s confidence in prescribing treatments. HRT can help relieve the severe symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, low mood, anxiety and difficulty sleeping. However, DHSC says rising demand is also one of the factors causing shortages in a small number of products, including Oestrogel – an ointment containing estrogen that is rubbed into the skin. DHSC says the HRT team will work closely with suppliers to understand what is causing the problems. It will then develop plans to ensure that both short-term and long-term supply meet growing demand. The team will also work with the NHS Business Services Authority to collect data to improve understanding of supply and demand as well as what causes shortages. It will also engage healthcare providers to ensure that they respond to increased demand. Javid said: “I understand how much women rely on HRT, so we will not take any steps to make sure women can get the HRT they need. That is why I have taken decisive action to appoint Madelaine McTernan as head of the HRT ομάδας Task Force… to build on the success of the Vaccine Working Group on boosting the supply of vital medicines to women across the country. “ Maria Caulfield, Minister of Women’s Health, said: “It is wonderful to see that the demand for HRT has grown so much in the last year, as it means that women have access to the right support. HRT can help women manage the severe, sometimes debilitating, symptoms of menopause, allowing them to stay in the workplace and live a more normal life. “I want all women to feel empowered to talk to their doctor about whether treatment therapy would be right for them and for doctors to feel confident about the prescription. “The new working group will play a vital role with suppliers, stakeholders and the entire government to ensure that every avenue is explored to ensure that all women who want HRT have access to it.” PA Media contributed to this report
