Menopause talk for optical teams
Dr Sarah Ball, GP and menopause expert
GP Sarah Ball gave optical staff advice and information about how to support patients and colleagues with menopausal problems at a presentation to Specsavers staff.
Changes to diet, exercise plans and alcohol consumption can help, Dr Ball told people from practices at Sutton Coldfield, Mere Green and Aldridge, in the West Midlands.
Retail director Tim Goodhew said: “As healthcare professionals, we have more knowledge to advise our patients who may have symptoms related to the menopause. From a personal point of view the team attending learned how symptoms that they may encounter may be related to menopausal changes.
“The additional information allows the team to signpost our patients, or themselves, to the best person who can assist them.”
Dr Ball said: “I am keen to empower those in our community to recognise the menopause and perimenopause in themselves and in their patients. Increasing awareness to organisations about supporting colleagues is also important.”
Tim Goodhew added: “I was thrilled that some team members without any symptoms came on behalf of their mums and other family members. As a great place to work, we know that supporting the team with their overall health and wellbeing also helps reduce absence, improve productivity and demonstrates how we care.”
Dr Ball highlighted how important it is for eyecare professionals to support patients. Menopause isn’t just a matter for doctors and nurses.
“Kate is in her 40s and visits her opticians regularly throughout the next decade. Each time she presents with a variety of symptoms, some of which may alert an optician, or any staff working within the clinical team, such as dry eyes and tinnitus, to raise the subject of menopause.
“Kate was also visiting her GP but as menopause training has not been mandatory for doctors many women fall through gaps. So the more people who have the correct information, the better.”
- Find more advice and information from the Menopause Charity