I have recently been informed that Lancaster Medical Practice is to stop prescribing testosterone to women experiencing menopause symptoms.
This change follows a decision that testosterone can only be prescribed on the NHS in our area if initiated and overseen by a clinician accredited by the British Menopause Society (BMS). In line with this updated guidance, Lancaster Medical Practice has made the decision to discontinue all prescribing of testosterone with immediate effect.
Patients have been informed by Lancaster Medical Practice that, under this policy, they can no longer receive testosterone prescriptions via their GP unless a BMS-accredited specialist produces a shared care agreement. They have advised patients by email that “Lancaster Medical Practice has not been commissioned (ie not funded) to provide these specialist menopause clinic services and our Clinicians have not been funded to gain this BMS qualification.”
This decision means that women who are unable to afford private healthcare are being left without the HRT that they need.
I have written to the local Integrated Care Board (ICB) in order to express her disappointment about this situation, and call on them to provide the care that people affected by the menopause deserve.
Whilst the ICB ultimately bear responsibility for this decision, I have also written to the Health Secretary to see what action they can take to ensure that the guidelines better reflect the needs of women suffering from menopause symptoms, and you can see my letter below:
