Facilitating Menopause Discussions in Primary Care: A Quality Improvement Project

Vollständiger Abstract

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Background and Purpose: Menopause is a significant life stage that requires provider awareness and patient education to support informed decision-making. Inconsistent provider knowledge and increasing menopause-related concerns among perimenopausal women in a primary care clinic contributed to variability in assessment, counseling, and management. This project implemented a structured, evidence-based menopause education intervention to improve patient knowledge and support informed discussions in primary care. Methods: This 6-week quality improvement project enrolled women aged 40–55 years presenting for routine care or menopause-related symptoms. Participants completed anonymous pre- and postintervention surveys assessing menopause knowledge. The intervention consisted of a provider-guided education session using an evidence-based trifold pamphlet addressing symptom recognition, treatment options, lifestyle recommendations, and preventive health. Only fully completed surveys were included in the analysis. Results: Ninety-eight percent of participants reported the intervention as relevant to their needs. Survey findings demonstrated improved menopause knowledge. The structured pamphlet facilitated patient–provider discussions and increased awareness. Implications for Practice: Structured menopause education in primary care can improve health literacy, support informed decision-making, and enhance patient–provider communication. Promoting earlier recognition of symptoms can improve the quality of life for menopausal women.