For too long, women experiencing perimenopause and menopause have suffered in silence.
It’s time for change.
The Greens are committed to making menopause treatments more affordable and accessible, by subsiding the cost to women so they’re not out of pocket, while also increasing awareness among healthcare professionals and the general public.
We heard some horror stories during the Senate inquiry into issues related to perimenopause and menopause about the cost of medication which can be hundreds of dollars a month.
We were told about one woman who was controlling her anxiety and depression with MHT until she could no longer afford it, she was forced to ask for Valium because it is PBS listed and $15 for a box of 50.
No one should be priced out of the healthcare they need.
The Greens will allocate $50 million annually to subsidise all TGA-approved MHT and address medication shortages, ensuring women have access to and can afford essential treatments.
We will also eliminate the PBS co-payment for menopause treatments already on the PBS. This means women will be able to get menopause treatment for free!
The Greens will ensure GPs are funded to have longer appointments, and can conduct comprehensive tests related to menopause including essential bone density scans.
We will also ensure medical students get more comprehensive menopause education.
One woman who asked her doctor if her symptoms could be from menopause said all he was taught in medical school was that menopausal women are either ‘mad or sad’.
The stigma surrounding menopause has left many women feeling isolated.
By increasing awareness, women can feel empowered to seek the support they deserve. That is why the Greens will implement a $5 million national education campaign for the public and for doctors.