I heard about this on the radio and someone was interviewed, and I must admit I got the impression from the discussion that they were referring to systemic HRT. In this case the woman (a health or medical professional or researcher - can't remember) cautioned against the idea saying that firstly pharmacists would need to be trained, and also because of certain health conditions meaning it might be ill-advised to start HRT, they would need to have access to the woman's summary health record. A sensible decision I would say - if the pharmacist is in place of the doctor. The point was made that it shpuld not be up to women to self certify that they there is nothing medically untoward that would preclude their being able to take HRT.
It was only when I read this thread just now, that I learnt that it was just one vaginal oestrogen product! This barely counts as HRT! That being the case I'm not sure there are any health conditions that would prevent vaginal oestrogen being sold?
When I googled I found the consultation here:
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/consultation-on-proposal-to-make-gina-10-microgram-vaginal-tablets-estradiol-available-from-pharmacies....and if you scroll down this link, you can find the Summary of Product Characteristics which is similar to that for Vagifem but has been rewritten presumably to take into account the new way it is to be made available ie has more information. From the list of ingredients it does look to be identical to Vagifem and not a new version (apart from the written info and the brand name - who on earth came up with that?!!!).
And as you say Deeble - those of us over 60 will continue to go to our doc to get Vagifem so that we can continue to get it free.
Good news though for those whose doctors refuse to prescribe - especially those who are on HRT and doc says you don't need vag oestrogen too! I wonder how the price will compare with the current cost of prescriptions?
Hurdity x