AMS applauds 2025 Commonwealth Budget announcements - 27 March 2025

The Australasian Menopause Society (AMS) has welcomed the further health initiatives for midlife women as outlined in the 2025/2026 federal budget. Alongside the March 1, 2025, additions to the PBS, the Federal Government announced:

• $26.3 million for a new Medicare rebate for menopause health assessments
• $4.4 million investment over three years to develop national clinical guidelines and deliver professional development courses for health professionals
• $12.8 million for an awareness campaign relating to perimenopause and menopause

AMS Board President, Dr Sylvia Rosevear hopes that the Medicare rebate for health assessments will contribute to improving access for care for Australian midlife women, pending more details.

Dr Rosevear said, ‘Because of the complexity of menopause consultations, including individualising investigations and management, they take time. Now women have the opportunity to have quality attention from their healthcare professionals.’

MHT discontinuation and shortages March 2025

There are a number of MHTs that are currently unavailable. Please note that the TGA has approved some unregistered products under Section 19A and some substitute doses are currently in supply in Australia.

Pharmacists are encouraged to contact suppliers Medsurge Healthcare Pty Ltd on 1300 788 261 for orders of Estramon and Sandoz on 1800 726 369 for orders of Estradiol Transdermal System.