Needs assessment of menopause education in United States obstetrics and gynecology residency training programs

Abstract

Objective This study aimed to assess the variance in menopause education, educational resources, and the needs of obstetrics and gynecology (ObGyn) residency programs by conducting a national survey of program directors (PDs). Methods In 2022, an institutional review board–approved Web-based Qualtrics survey was designed and distributed electronically to 145 US ObGyn residency PDs. The survey consists of 15 questions. The main outcomes are reported using descriptive statistics. Results The survey was completed by 99 of 145 PDs (68.3%). Almost all participants (92.9%) strongly agreed that residents nationwide should have access to a standardized menopause curriculum that could be utilized in their programs. Only 31.3% reported having a menopause curriculum in their residency program. Of the programs with a menopause curriculum, 96.8% reported using lectures, 77.4% reported assigned readings, and 74.2% had either dedicated menopause clinics or other clinics with a high volume of menopausal patients. Of all programs surveyed, only 29.3% reported that trainees had dedicated time assigned to a menopause clinic. A total of 83 of 99 PDs agreed or strongly agreed that their programs needed more menopause educational resources, and most (89.7%) stated they were likely or very likely to use self-paced menopause modules that include performance feedback if available. Conclusions Data from the needs assessment questionnaire revealed that menopause education and resources vary across residency programs, with the majority lacking a dedicated menopause curriculum. Most PDs expressed a desire for more educational resources and standardized training materials, and preferred to access an online national menopause curriculum.

It is time to standardize menopause curriculum in residency

“…Addressing critical gaps in menopause training needs to be a priority to ensure accurate and comprehensive menopause care. The data presented by Allen et al 5 illustrate the heterogeneity in menopause training across the US Obstetrics and Gynecology residency programs. Based on their findings, nationally, obstetrics-gynecology residents are not being adequately prepared to manage menopausal patients.…”

“…The first step to improving clinician knowledge and confidence in menopause care is comprehensive resident training. The manuscript "Needs Assessment of Menopause Education in United States Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency Training Programs" by Dr. Jennifer T. Allen et al 5 acknowledges that prior studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of access to dedicated menopause clinics, experts, and menopause curriculums in residency programs in gaining knowledge and confidence. Currently, residents, when surveyed, report significant knowledge gaps and discomfort with the topic of menopause, which alludes that many programs may lack these resources.…”

Resident training to optimize patient-focused menopause management: a multispecialty menopause curriculum to enhance knowledge and preparedness

“…13 A recent survey of program directors found that only 31% of OB/GYN programs have a menopause curriculum. 14 Thus, there is a substantial need to improve the training that primary care and OB/GYN clinicians receive regarding the care of women going through menopause.…”

“…A multispecialty survey of residents in OB/GYN, IM, and FM revealed knowledge gaps and a lack of training opportunities regarding menopause 13 . A recent survey of program directors found that only 31% of OB/GYN programs have a menopause curriculum 14 . Thus, there is a substantial need to improve the training that primary care and OB/GYN clinicians receive regarding the care of women going through menopause.…”

Effective menopause education methods: addressing the needs of current medical trainees

“…Only 31% of ObGyn programs have a menopause curriculum, and almost all PDs (92.9%) strongly agreed that residents nationwide should have access to a standardized menopause curriculum. 1 One major challenge in implementing a standardized curriculum is the ever-changing landscape of medical education. Today, most residents in training belong to Generation Z (born after 1995).…”