Perceptions of Menopause Care: A Pilot Survey Study of Providers from Primary Care, Endocrinology, and Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Abstract

Objective: To describe and compare current attitudes, practices, and needs in the provision of menopause care across multiple specialties. Materials and Methods: An anonymous survey was emailed to providers in primary care, endocrinology, and obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) at Duke University and the University of Utah between January 4 and February 14, 2024. Results: The response rate was 18% (238/1326). Data analysis was performed on the 201 fully licensed providers who completed the survey. Most primary care physicians (PCPs) (92%, 94/102) and OB/GYNs (95%, 54/57) reported providing care for symptomatic menopause, whereas only 38% (16/42) of endocrinologists reported the same. The respondents indicated the following specialties as being responsible for the provision of menopause care at the following frequencies: 83% (166/201) primary care, 96% (193/201) OB/GYN, and 40% (81/201) endocrinology. OB/GYN providers endorsed the highest rates of confidence and understanding with menopausal hormone therapy, whereas endocrinologists endorsed the lowest rates. Most frequently reported barrier to provision of menopause care was lack of training (62%, 124/201). Most frequently reported way to improve provision of menopause care was training for providers (92%, 184/201). For primary ovarian insufficiency, only 45% (46/102) of PCPs always found it appropriate to treat with hormone therapy as compared with 82% (47/57) of OB/GYNs and 86% (36/42) of endocrinologists. Conclusions: Our pilot study highlights the need for enhanced provider education and the existing variations in menopause care across specialties. However, due to the study's limited generalizability, a nationally representative study is necessary to better understand the provider-related factors influencing menopause care delivery.