Breaking the Silence: How Elektra Health is Transforming Menopause Care in the Workplace

In an episode of Healthcare on the Rocks, Dr. Nora Lansen, Chief Medical Officer at Elektra Health, shared groundbreaking insights about menopause care and its critical importance in the workplace. With over 50 million women in the United States navigating this journey, the impact on workplace productivity and employee well-being cannot be overlooked.

Below, you'll find highlights and takeaways from their conversation.
Ready to listen to the full episode? Click here.

The Hidden Impact of Menopause in the Workplace‍

Recent statistics from Elektra Health's 2022 Menopause in the Workplace survey reveal concerning trends:

• One in three women report that menopause negatively impacts their work performance
• 20% have left or considered leaving their job due to menopause symptoms
• 18% haven't pursued promotions because of menopause-related challenges
• 44% feel their employers could provide better support during this transition

These numbers highlight a significant workplace challenge that often goes unaddressed. Beyond the commonly known symptoms like hot flashes, women experience neurocognitive symptoms such as brain fog and short-term memory loss that can significantly impact their professional performance.

Redefining Menopause Care for the Modern Workplace

Elektra Health is revolutionizing menopause care through a comprehensive digital health solution. Their approach combines:

• Virtual consultations with menopause-certified physicians and nurse practitioners
• Support from specialized menopause guides (often referred to as "menopause doulas")
• Access to vetted educational content and resources
• Community support for women experiencing similar challenges

"We are really focused on midlife and menopause care," explains Dr. Lansen. "While a busy GYN or PCP might not have time to comprehensively address menopausal symptoms, at Elektra, that's all we do."

Why Employers Should Prioritize Menopause Benefits

The business case for supporting employees through menopause is compelling:

• Career Impact: The average age of menopause in the U.S. is 51 – typically when women are at the peak of their careers and in senior positions.
• Extended Timeline: Menopause isn't a moment but a journey that can span 20-25 years, from early perimenopause through post-menopause.
• Health Implications: Menopause marks an inflection point for increased risk of various health concerns, including:some text
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • High blood pressure
  • Dementia
  • Cardiometabolic illness

Breaking Down Barriers: How Employers Can Take Action

Elektra Health offers multiple ways for employers to support their workforce:

• Educational Events: Hosting employee resource group events to start conversations about menopause
• Comprehensive Benefits: Offering Elektra's services as a covered benefit
• Flexible Solutions: Access to non-clinical services through membership programs
• Inclusive Care: Partnerships with various health plans, including Medicaid and Medicare

The Path Forward

As workplaces evolve to better support diverse needs, addressing menopause care becomes increasingly critical. "It's not just a single moment in time," Dr. Lansen emphasizes. "We're talking about people who are at the prime of their career often... and companies generally want to retain people with that level of experience."

By partnering with solutions like Elektra Health, employers can take meaningful steps toward supporting their workforce through this significant life transition while maintaining productivity and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

• To learn more about Elektra Health's solutions for employers and health plans, visit https://www.elektrahealth.com 
• Listen to the full episode here