The Irish government has expanded its Free Contraception Scheme to include women aged 32 to 35, marking another significant step in increasing access to contraceptive services. The scheme, initially launched in September 2022, has progressively extended its coverage to now cater to women, transgender, and non-binary individuals aged 17 to 35.
Expansion Timeline and Services Offered
The Free Contraception Scheme began on September 14, 2022, providing free contraception to individuals aged 17 to 25. Since its inception, the scheme has expanded multiple times: to 26-year-olds in January 2023, to those aged 27-30 in September 2023, to 31-year-olds in January 2024, and now to individuals aged 32-35 as of July 1, 2024.
The scheme covers a wide array of contraceptive services. These include consultations with general practitioners (GPs), family planning, student health, and primary care centers. The costs of various contraceptive methods, including long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) such as injections, implants, and intra-uterine devices (IUDs or coils), are also fully covered. Additionally, the scheme offers free emergency contraception and other methods like the oral contraceptive pill, patch, and ring.
Addressing Barriers to Contraception
The development of the Free Contraception Scheme was driven by the findings of the 2019 Report of the Working Group on Access to Contraception. The report highlighted significant barriers to accessing contraception in Ireland, including cost, accessibility, and a lack of information. By removing the financial burden associated with contraceptive consultations and prescriptions, the scheme aims to make effective contraception more accessible.
LARCs, considered some of the most effective forms of contraception, are particularly emphasized in the scheme. Previously, the cost for private patients to access these methods, including consultations and fittings, could reach €300-€400. Under the scheme, these costs are eliminated, making LARCs more accessible to a broader population.
Funding and Support
The Free Contraception Scheme has received substantial financial backing from the Irish government. An initial allocation of €9 million was secured in Budget 2022, with increased funding of €31.5 million provided in Budget 2023. For 2024, the scheme’s budget includes an additional €4 million, bringing the total allocation to €48 million. This funding is part of a broader initiative under the Women’s Health Action Plan 2024-2026, aimed at enhancing women’s health services across the country.
The scheme is widely supported by healthcare providers, with nearly 2,400 GPs and related medical facilities and 2,050 community pharmacies participating. This extensive network ensures that eligible individuals can access contraception services conveniently through their local GP or pharmacist.
