We are lucky to partner with Visana Health and to learn from Barbara Levy, MD, FACOG, FACS Visana's Chief Medical Officer, who is renown in her field. Today Dr. Levy published an article with Chrissy Farr in Second Opinion Media on why it is paramount that menopause treatment be integrated in a whole-care model. This is a key reason why Frist Cressey Ventures invested in Visana. We believe a longitudinal and whole-person model for all women ages 18-65 will produce the best outcomes and experience, and cause tangible reduction in the cost curve for payors. “A challenge for [menopause] patients is that not all symptoms are related to declining hormone levels during perimenopause or menopause. They may be experiencing thyroid problems or blood sugar fluctuations causing their symptoms. In an ideal world, the management of menopause symptoms should be integrated into the care for all other conditions a woman may suffer from. Healthcare professionals can best treat patients when they know about every treatment a woman is taking. What I see instead is the rise of companies that do not have licensed practitioners available to patients who can diagnose other medical conditions and prescribe medication and order labs. This has been a problem in my practice. There’s also been a move towards “Pill Mill” behavior, with the rise of companies creating pharmacies and selling medications directly to patients alongside supplements — all without adequate clinical support. Women deserve better. After decades of paternalism and symptoms getting ignored, we’re finally in a moment where menopause is getting real attention and resources - although I will be the first to stress that it’s only a drop in the bucket. As an industry, let’s not waste the moment.”
We are proud to announce that Barbara Levy, MD, FACOG, FACS, Chief Medical Officer at Visana Health, was recently featured in Second Opinion Media, discussing "An OB-Gyn's View of the Menopause Market." Dr. Levy brings decades of expertise and a critical eye to the evolving landscape of menopause care. In the article, Dr. Levy addresses the complexities and challenges within the sector, particularly around hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the significant variance in treatment quality. She emphasizes the need for more nuanced and effective care approaches that go beyond just prescribing hormones and consider the holistic needs of women during menopause. Key Points from Dr. Levy: - Menopause care is more than just managing symptoms—it’s about understanding the full scope of women’s health during this phase. - Effective treatment requires proper training and awareness among healthcare providers. - The importance of integrating comprehensive care that respects the individual needs of each woman. This feature underscores the critical role of informed, compassionate care in improving health outcomes for women experiencing menopause. Dr. Levy’s insights are not just a reflection of her commitment but also align with Visana Health's mission to provide comprehensive, patient-centered healthcare. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/e9QTD6n6 #WomensHealth #MenopauseCare #HealthcareLeadership #VisanaHealth #SecondOpinion