Expert Cervical Cancer Screening | The Menopause Clinic

WHAT TO EXPECT: YOUR MENOPAUSE & PERIMENOPAUSE EXPERIENCE WITH US

EMBARK ON A PERSONALIZED PATH TO BETTER HEALTH AND LASTING WELLNESS

Step One: The Referral Process

At The Menopause Clinic, we’ve designed every step of your care to provide personalized attention and expert guidance. Our approach combines clinical excellence with compassionate care, addressing both your immediate concerns and long-term wellbeing.

Your care at The Menopause Clinic typically begins with a referral from your family physician or healthcare provider. This referral may provide several benefits:

Your visits may be eligible for Alberta Health Services coverage (medically necessary services will be provided through Alberta Health Coverage)
Our team has access to your relevant medical records, allowing us to review your health history comprehensively before your appointment.
We can coordinate effectively with your primary care provider to ensure seamless, integrated care.

Please note that compounded BHRT, nutritional recommendations, supplements, weight management, body composition, IVs, and any specified uninsured services are not covered through AHC.

Once your referral is received, our team will review it promptly and reach out to schedule your first appointment.

Step Two: Gathering Your Health Information

We’ll send you a 30-minute intake questionnaire to complete before your appointment. This helps us create a personalized plan for you – please fill it out to the best of your ability. To make the most of your time with our clinical team, please have the following information ready:

Complete medical history, including any surgeries or significant health events
Family medical history, particularly regarding women's health concerns
Current medication list, including prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and supplements
Menstrual history, including the date of your last period and any changes in your cycle
Symptom journal, noting the frequency, severity, and impact of your symptoms

This information helps us develop a comprehensive understanding of your health needs and concerns.

What To Bring

Please bring to your appointment:

Your Alberta Health Care Card & Photo ID
Any recent lab results or imaging reports not available in your electronic health record
A list of questions or concerns you'd like to address
A support person if desired (though please note space may be limited)

Step 3: What to Expect At Your Appointments

Your care journey involves two separate appointments:.

First Appointment: Nursing Assessment (15 minutes)

Your journey begins with a comprehensive nursing assessment. Our specialized women’s health nurses will gather your health history and symptoms in a comfortable setting before your physician consultation. During this appointment, we will:

Review your health questionnaire
Discuss your primary symptoms and concerns
Measure vital signs and basic health indicators
Provide preliminary education about menopause management
Prepare you for your upcoming physician consultation

Second Appointment: Physician Consultation (30 minutes)

After your nursing assessment, you’ll meet with our menopause specialist physician who will develop your personalized treatment plan. During this consultation, your physician will:

Conduct a comprehensive review of your health history and symptoms
Perform a physical examination when appropriate
Discuss your diagnosis and treatment options
Develop your personalized care plan
Address your questions and concerns

These appointments are scheduled separately to ensure adequate time for each stage. Our approach emphasizes education and partnership, empowering you to make informed decisions about your health.

Step 4: After Your Appointment

Before you leave, you’ll receive a clear, comprehensive personalized care plan that outlines:

Your diagnosis and treatment recommendations
Any prescribed medications with detailed instructions
Recommended basic lifestyle modifications
Follow-up appointment schedule
Basic resources for additional education and support

Note that our uninsured plans provide access to more comprehensive education, groups, and community resource.

Follow-Up Care

Your follow-up care is tailored to your specific needs and treatment plan. Typically, if you begin hormone therapy or other treatments, you can expect:

An initial follow-up at 6-8 weeks to assess your response to treatment
A comprehensive review at 3 months to evaluate progress and make adjustments
Ongoing care scheduled according to your needs and response

For patients with complex needs or multiple symptoms, we may recommend more frequent follow-up visits to ensure optimal care. Follow-ups may be scheduled with the physician or nurse depending on your progress and complexity.

HOW WE CAN HELP

Our Commitment to Your Care

At The Menopause Clinic, we recognize that seeking care for menopause symptoms is an important step in your health journey. Our entire team is committed to providing the expert, compassionate care you deserve.