The healthcare workforce is facing an unprecedented challenge as it grapples with the implications of menopause, a natural biological process that significantly affects half the population. With the average age of menopause onset being around 51, healthcare providers must grapple with the growing number of women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Scott, Hancock, Rogers, and their colleagues have embarked on a significant scoping review and stakeholder consultation detailed in their upcoming article in BMC Health Services Research. This important work sheds light on the intersection between menopause and healthcare systems, aiming to improve the support provided to women during this transformative life stage.
The menopausal transition occurs over several years and is characterized by significant hormonal changes that can lead to various physical and psychological symptoms. Many women experience hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances, all of which can profoundly impact their quality of life. Despite this, there is often a stark lack of awareness among healthcare professionals regarding how to effectively address these issues. This gap in knowledge signifies a critical area where improvements are both necessary and possible.
The scoping review conducted by Scott and colleagues dives deep into existing literature and current practices related to menopause and healthcare. The research highlights a crucial unmet need for training and education within the healthcare workforce. Many healthcare providers feel ill-equipped to manage menopausal symptoms, leading to insufficient care and support for patients. By identifying this shortfall, the authors aim to advocate for enhanced educational resources targeting menopause management.
Stakeholder consultation is a vital component of this research. By engaging with various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, patients, and policymakers, the authors sought to capture a comprehensive range of perspectives related to menopause management. These consultations are critical in understanding not only the lived experiences of women undergoing menopause but also the systemic barriers that healthcare providers face in delivering appropriate care.
The results of this research have implications that extend beyond just the healthcare setting. The way society perceives and discusses menopause significantly influences how women experience this stage in their lives. Historically, menopause has often been shrouded in stigma and silence, making it difficult for women to seek assistance and share their experiences openly. By addressing menopause both as a medical and social issue, the authors aim to foster a cultural shift that encourages open conversations and greater empathy within the healthcare workforce.
Moreover, the findings of this review are timely, given the increasing awareness surrounding women’s health issues. There is a growing movement advocating for more attention to be paid to women’s unique health needs, particularly during midlife. By framing menopause within this larger context, Scott et al. emphasize the importance of integrating menopause education into broader women’s health initiatives.
The need for systemic change is evident in many healthcare setups, where menopause is often erroneously seen as a trivial issue. The authors advocate for policies that support comprehensive training programs for healthcare providers, ensuring that they are well-equipped to handle the complexities of menopause. Such changes could drastically improve the care women receive during this significant life change.
As part of their research, Scott and colleagues conducted a thorough examination of current clinical guidelines and best practices. They found that while there are established guidelines available, many practitioners remain unaware of them or do not implement them effectively. This disconnect between existing literature and everyday practices highlights an urgent need for better dissemination of information within healthcare communities.
Additionally, the scoping review provides recommendations for future research directions, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and adaptation within the healthcare field. Women’s health, particularly in regards to menopause, must remain a dynamic area of study, evolving alongside new evidence and societal changes. By prioritizing research in this area, the healthcare workforce can ensure they are meeting the needs of evolving demographics and changing patient expectations.
The stakeholders consulted during this research expressed a desire for more collaborative efforts among healthcare providers, researchers, and advocacy groups. Many felt that a united front would better serve to address the issues surrounding menopause, creating a more robust support network for women. Through greater collaboration, initiatives can be developed that promote awareness, education, and practical resources for both patients and providers.
Finally, this review stands as a call to action for the healthcare community. The authors encourage healthcare organizations and educators to prioritize menopause in their training programs, ensuring that the next generation of healthcare providers is well-versed in this critical area of women’s health. By doing so, they can create a supportive environment that empowers women to seek help during one of the most challenging transitions of their lives.
In conclusion, Scott, Hancock, Rogers, and their team have laid a significant foundation for addressing the complexities of menopause within the healthcare workforce. Their comprehensive scoping review and stakeholder consultation represent an important step towards transforming the dialogue surrounding menopause from one of stigma to one of support and understanding. Moving forward, it is vital for the healthcare system to embrace these findings and prioritize the health and well-being of women experiencing menopause, thereby improving patient care and outcomes for millions.
Subject of Research: Menopause and its impact on the healthcare workforce
Article Title: Menopause and the healthcare workforce: a scoping review and stakeholder consultation
Article References:
Scott, J., Hancock, J., Rogers, M. et al. Menopause and the healthcare workforce: a scoping review and stakeholder consultation. BMC Health Serv Res (2026). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12913-025-13906-z
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1186/s12913-025-13906-z
Keywords: menopause, healthcare workforce, women’s health, training, stakeholder consultation, scoping review.
