Free HRT treatments likely to be delayed due to 'lack of planning'

HRT, including medicines, patches, and devices, offers relief from symptoms of menopause like hot flushes, mood swings, and joint pain. Stock picture: Alamy

Women have been warned not to expect free HRT treatments from January 1 in pharmacies due to a "lack of planning" to roll out the promised budgetary measure.

One GP with a special interest in menopause now expects it could take up to three months before the scheme is properly introduced.