Menopause.

Assembly Member Papan's menopause healthcare initiative directs the Department of Health Care Access and Information to conduct a comprehensive assessment of physician education and practice patterns related to menopause diagnosis and treatment. The department must collaborate with the Medical Board of California, the Osteopathic Medical Board of California, and state higher education entities to examine current medical training programs and clinical approaches.

The assessment will analyze practice trends across multiple dimensions, including medical specialties, geographic regions, provider demographics, practice settings, and experience levels. By January 1, 2027, the department must submit a report to the Legislature identifying gaps in medical education and clinical practice regarding menopause care. The report will also outline policy recommendations aimed at addressing identified shortcomings in professional training and patient care protocols.

The measure establishes this evaluation framework within existing departmental resources and regulatory structures, requiring no new appropriations. While the Medical Board of California and Osteopathic Medical Board of California currently oversee physician licensing and continuing education requirements, this initiative creates a focused examination of menopause-specific medical training and treatment approaches.