Important Public Announcement on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
There is exciting news on the horizon when it comes to PharmaCare & HRT! On September 12, 2024, British Columbia became the first province to sign a pharmacare agreement with the federal government that would allow BC to fund hormone replacement therapy (HRT).*
HRT & Women’s Health
It is well documented that untreated menopause symptoms have a negative impact on health, and ensuring hormonal balance is an important part of supporting quality of life. Naturopathic Doctors are well versed in the holistic care that gets at the root of health issues, including menopause. Additionally, many NDs have expertise in treating aspects of women’s health including menopause and serve as the primary health providers for many navigating the complexities of finding hormonal balance.
The funding of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an important indicator of the necessity in ensuring that those going through menopause are well supported. Reports estimate that roughly 40,000 women could benefit from HRT coverage, making this an important milestone in women’s health and in broadening the ability to receive necessary treatment.
How HRT Funding Impacts Naturopathic Doctors & Patients
Funding HRT aligns well with the expertise of naturopathic doctors. NDs are already trusted providers of holistic care, many of whom are already working with populations requiring hormonal balance during menopause. With this funding in place, NDs can continue to offer comprehensive care, combining HRT with natural therapies to address individual needs and optimize health outcomes for women during this crucial stage of life. Most importantly, patients can receive the care they need delivered by a provider of their choice.
BCND (the association that represents Naturopathic Doctors of British Columbia) will look forward to continuing to provide a solutions-oriented approach to key health issues that impact the people of British Columbia. The legislation to enact the funding is estimated to be in place by April of 2025.
* The funding also includes expenses incurred in the treatment of diabetes. Please note, it has also not yet been clarified the extent to which this is ALL prescriptions and if compounded products are included.
Source: Bulletin Update Provided BC Naturopathic Doctors, Sept 2024