A crucial hormone treatment for approximately one million middle-aged women in Australia is still out of reach for many due to its lack of government subsidy, warn experts. The testosterone therapy, known as AndroFeme, is currently not listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). This issue has led to over 10,000 people signing a petition on Change.org spearheaded by Dr. Ceri Cashell, a Sydney GP and co-founder of Healthy Hormones, advocating for AndroFeme’s inclusion on the PBS to enhance affordability.
Dr. Cashell noted that while the government made significant progress by adding body-identical estrogen and progesterone to the PBS, thereby easing access to hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women, testosterone remains unaffordable for many, with costs between $100 to $180 for a three-month supply. She emphasised that many midlife women require estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone to regain their vitality and well-being. AndroFeme, the only female-targeted testosterone product approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), aims to address low libido and other hormonal changes related to menopause but is predominantly available through private scripts that come with hefty out-of-pocket expenses.
The disparity in access is striking, as nine testosterone products for men are available on the PBS, yet AndroFeme awaits similar treatment. Even in affluent regions, women are hesitant to pursue testosterone treatments primarily due to costs. Many voices in the community, including podcaster Cathrine Mahoney, advocate for broader access, highlighting personal experiences where testosterone treatment significantly improved her libido and energy levels during perimenopause.
A recent parliamentary inquiry highlighted how the financial burden of newer hormone therapies profoundly affects women, triggering the government’s decision to include certain menopausal hormone therapies in a substantial health package. While acknowledging the steps taken towards improved accessibility, the lack of testosterone treatment options for women remains a glaring oversight.
To add any medication to the PBS, the Department of Health requires a formal submission to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee, which then assesses its suitability for inclusion. The call remains strong for AndroFeme to be recognised and subsidised, aiming to ensure that all women have the right and ability to access essential hormone treatments without financial strain.