A new scheme has been introduced which provides women aged 17 to 25 with free access to contraception and contraceptive healthcare.
The scheme is backed by the Irish Medical Organization (IMO), Department of Health and HSE.
Hazelhill Family Practice will be participating in the scheme and here are the key details.
Who is eligible for the contraception scheme?
Women aged 17 to 25 who have been living in Ireland for the past year are eligible for the contraception scheme. (Those who will be living in Ireland for the next year are also covered.)
If you are eligible, all patients are asked for is their name, address, PPSN and their date of birth.
What contraceptives will be covered under the scheme?
At Hazelhill Family Practice, we will be able to offer free contraception which include the contraceptive patch, pill, Implanon and Depo Provera. The scheme will also cover the Mirena, Jaydess and Kyleena coils.
Currently, the scheme does not cover the Copper coil. However, according to the IMO, that will be added to the scheme in the next few months. Emergency contraceptives will also be covered under this new scheme.
How does it work for the patient?
At Hazelhill Family Practice, patients who are eligible for the contraception scheme will be able to get procedures outlined fully covered.
The initial consultation appointment where you and your GP discuss your contraceptive options is also included. Additionally, the cost of the medication or device prescribed if needed from the pharmacy is covered. All patients need for this part is their PPSN and date of birth.
If the patient needs their form of contraceptive to be inserted or removed, this will also be covered. Under the new scheme, patients will be able have the removal and insertion of a contraceptive device on the same day. When the GP is able to do so, they may also have the initial consultation and insertion of the device on the same day. The scheme will also cover follow-up consultations.
Generally, the number of consultations covered by the scheme will depend on the contraceptive you are using.
Follow on treatment
For the contraceptive patch and pill two consultations will be necessary each year. Patients who have Mirena, Jaydess and Kyleena coils inserted will require a consultation at the initial stage and a check-up six weeks in. One consultation is necessary for the emergency pill and the contraceptive injection. Depo Provera will require a consultation every 12 weeks.
Any patients who experience medical complications from using the contraceptives will have their consultation covered. As will patients who wish to change their form of contraceptives because they are experiencing side effects.
How do I make an appointment at Hazelhill Family Practice?
If you would like to avail of this new free contraception scheme and would like to book a consultation at Hazelhill Family Practice, click here.
You can also call the Hazelhill Family Practice on 094 9630091/ 094 9632170.
Hazelhill Family Practice is a GP/ Doctor practice based in Ballyhaunis.