Context:

A national movement is underway in the United States to address menopause care with more than a dozen states considering legislation to improve clinician training and insurance coverage for menopause treatment. This legislative push is fueled by the growing demand for better menopause care and the recognition that menopause has been historically overlooked in healthcare policy. Many bills introduced focus on insurance coverage, clinician education, and workplace protections for menopausal women, with some states already enacting new laws. The renewed focus comes after years of silence following a 2002 study that linked hormone therapy to breast cancer, leading to a decline in hormone therapy use despite recent studies showing its benefits. Advocates believe that even if some bills do not pass immediately, the ongoing conversation is crucial for future policy success and increased awareness about menopause care needs.

Dive Deeper:

• California Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan introduced a bill mandating insurance coverage for menopause evaluation and treatment after experiencing dismissive care for her perimenopausal symptoms. This bill is part of a broader movement across the United States to improve menopause care through legislation.

• Over a dozen states, including New York, California, and Illinois, are considering or have passed bills to enhance menopause care, focusing on clinician training, public education, and insurance coverage. This legislative activity is seen as a response to the historical neglect of menopause in healthcare policy and research.

• Menopause affects approximately 1.3 million women annually in the United States, causing symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, and mood changes. Despite its prevalence, menopause has been underrepresented in medical research and policy, prompting advocates to push for better care and awareness.

• The 2002 Women's Health Initiative study, which linked hormone therapy to breast cancer, led to widespread fear and a reduction in hormone therapy use. Recent research, however, suggests that hormone therapy can be beneficial, highlighting the need to revisit and update education and treatment protocols.

• Legislative efforts are not just focused on passing bills but also on raising awareness and fostering a national conversation about menopause care. Advocates like Jennifer Weiss-Wolf believe that even if not all bills pass, the attention and discussion they generate are steps towards improving menopause care in the future.

• Rhode Island became the first state to enact workplace protections for menopausal women, with legislation aimed at preventing discrimination and providing accommodations like remote work. Other states, such as New York and New Jersey, are considering similar measures to address menopause in the workplace.

• Dr. Sharon Malone and Dr. Monica Christmas emphasize the importance of correcting misinformation about hormone therapy and ensuring that comprehensive, evidence-based menopause care is accessible to all women. They stress the need for policy changes that support research, education, and equitable healthcare access.