Women Face Fragmented Healthcare System During Menopause,Driving Demand for Specialized Clinics
WASHINGTON - women navigating perimenopause and menopause frequently enough find themselves on a frustrating circuit of specialist visits – a dermatologist for skin changes,a neurologist for brain fog,an OB/GYN for vaginal dryness,and a general practitioner for cholesterol – highlighting a critical gap in healthcare tailored to this meaningful life stage. This fragmented approach is fueling a growing demand for specialized menopause clinics and concierge practices offering extensive care, experts say.
The experience is widespread. Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause are so diverse that women frequently seek help from multiple doctors before realizing the root cause is hormonal change.This can lead to delayed diagnosis, ineffective treatment, and significant out-of-pocket expenses, even before meeting annual insurance deductibles.
Dr. Julie Andresen, author of The Perimenopause Survival guide and founder of the Menopause Clinic at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, understands this struggle firsthand. She previously saw upwards of 20 patients a day addressing menopause-related issues.Now,running The Collaborative,a concierge practice,she sees fewer than half that number,allowing for more in-depth consultations.
“I was spending so much money seeing so many doctors before hitting my deductible,” Andresen said, explaining her decision to embrace the concierge model. ”This was really my last resort.”
The need for specialized care stems from a historical lack of focus on women’s health during midlife. Menopause was often dismissed as a “natural” process rather than a medical transition requiring attention. This has resulted in limited training for many physicians on recognizing and treating menopause symptoms effectively.
andresen’s experience reflects a growing trend. Patients are seeking longer appointments, comprehensive education, and a physician who understands the interconnectedness of menopause symptoms. She notes that patients at The Collaborative often spend over an hour at their first appointment and actively engage with educational resources,with some watching more than eight hours of videos on menopause.
This increased awareness is also driving advocacy. Andresen recently wrote a letter to the FDA this summer, urging for improved treatment options for women experiencing menopause. She, and others, believe that better care is not just a matter of comfort, but a vital investment in women’s overall health and well-being.
Laura Trujillo is a national columnist focusing on health and wellness. She is the author of “Stepping Back from the ledge: A Daughter’s Search for Truth and Renewal,” and can be reached at ltrujillo@usatoday.com.
