Women who experience severe or complex menopause symptoms will benefit from enhanced support, with the opening of a new menopause hub in Newcastle.
The specialised facility is designed to assist women whose menopause symptoms have not responded to previous treatments, or who face additional complications from other medical conditions.
Located in Wallsend, the new hub is part of NSW Health's extensive menopause network, which includes four health hubs and multiple referral sites throughout the state.
The hub offers a comprehensive approach to managing severe menopausal symptoms through a multi-disciplinary team of medical specialists and allied health professionals, including women's health nurses, physiotherapists, dietitians, and clinical psychologists.
General practitioners, specialists, and nurse practitioners can refer eligible women for advanced care, with in-person consultations available, along with telehealth support for those in rural areas.
For more information about Hunter New England Local Health District's menopause hub and referral criteria, contact 02 4924 5753.
For more information visit Menopause services.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:
"Up to one in four women endure severe and debilitating menopause symptoms, which is why services like this one are so important."
"The completion of the Newcastle menopause hub marks a significant milestone for women in the Hunter, New England, Lower Mid North Coast, and northern NSW regions who need advanced support."
Quotes attributable to Minister for Women, Jodie Harrison:
"Menopause will affect most women at some stage of their life. For some, the symptoms might be limited. For others, it can be debilitating."
"The opening of this Menopause Hub in Wallsend - as part of a network of menopause services - means women in the region experiencing severe or complex symptoms of menopause can access the important health care services they need."
"It's also important during this Women's Health Week we raise awareness to help break the menopause taboo so women can receive appropriate menopausal care and support."
Quotes attributable to Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery:
"I'm glad to see this great facility is being brought to Wallsend. It will make a huge difference to the lives of women suffering from severe or complex menopause symptoms."
"To have access to the care right here in Wallsend is potentially life-changing for many women in our community."
Quotes attributable to Hunter New England Local Health District's Executive Director of Clinical Services, Nursing and Midwifery, Elizabeth Grist:
"We are excited to offer this state-of-the-art service to women experiencing challenging menopause symptoms or who face additional medical challenges."
"Our hub is also particularly crucial for those experiencing perimenopause or early menopause, such as those undergoing post-cancer treatment."