Driven by a growing trend, an increasing number of Canadians are choosing to pay for menopause care from private practitioners operating outside the public health-care system. Aidan Brame, a 46-year-old resident of Nanaimo, B.C., sought help due to frozen shoulder and nighttime hot flashes. Despite her concerns being dismissed by her family doctor, she eventually received hormone replacement therapy and was referred to a menopause specialist after a lengthy wait.
The lack of information and limited access to doctors with specialized menopause training have left many women struggling to manage their symptoms effectively. While data on Canadians seeking private menopause care is scarce, a 2024 study in British Columbia revealed that 43.5% of women aged 39 to 60 sought help from various health-care providers, such as naturopaths and physiotherapists, spending significant amounts on these services.
To address her symptoms, Brame opted for a virtual clinic called Modern Menopause, paying for an initial consultation and subsequent appointments. Following thorough assessments and tests, she received personalized treatment that significantly improved her symptoms and quality of life.
However, caution is advised when seeking menopause services from private operators, as not all may be qualified or provide evidence-based treatments. Dr. Kelsey Mills, an obstetrician-gynecologist, warns against unregulated hormone products and excessive hormone testing promoted by some providers, emphasizing the need for reputable and qualified practitioners.
Private menopause clinics adopt various models, such as membership fees or virtual consultations, to offer specialized care beyond what the public system provides. Dr. Eileen Wang, founder of Modern Menopause, highlights the necessity of these clinics in addressing the unmet needs of women facing challenges in accessing menopause care, especially in rural areas.
Despite the financial burden of private care, individuals like Brame find value in the personalized attention and relief from symptoms these clinics offer. As the debate continues on the accessibility and quality of menopause care in Canada, the role of private clinics in addressing gaps in the public system remains a topic of discussion.
