The Free Contraception Scheme in Ireland has been expanded to include women aged 32 – 35 as of July 1^st. The scheme, which began in September 2022 for women aged 17 – 25 has gradually expanded and covers consultations and prescriptions for a range of contraceptive options.

I believe that the expansion of the Free Contraception Scheme to include women aged 32 – 35 offers both challenges and opportunities.

        Challenges:                                                                                 Opportunities: 

       Some challenges I think will arise                       I think the change creates an opportunity for GPs
       include a surge in patient numbers                    to gain additional income streams and provide more    
       and consultations that could                                 structured and comprehensive care. It will also allow
       necessitate more resources and more               for a broader demographic to receive both care and 
       space. The change will also likely create           counselling.
       issues with patient scheduling for GPs.

You can learn more about the Contraception Scheme and many others in our online GMS, PCRS, and State Schemes Course to ensure your practice is maximizing the change’s benefits and mitigating its challenges.

Click on this LINK to find out more.