Women's Health Advocacy: Menopause Treatment Access in California

Halle Berry criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for vetoing the Menopause Care Equity Act, a bill aimed at ensuring access to menopause treatments for women. Speaking at the New York Times DealBook Summit, Berry expressed disappointment over Newsom's decision, suggesting that it reflects poorly on his commitment to women's health, particularly as Robert F.

Kennedy Jr. has recently taken a stand on women's health issues. The Act, which had bipartisan support, would have required private insurance to cover FDA-approved menopause treatments and incentivized doctors to pursue continuous education on menopause.

With the recent removal of black box warnings from hormone replacement therapy by the FDA, which had previously deterred its use due to perceived risks, access to these treatments could improve. However, barriers remain as many doctors lack training in menopause care, and the bill's veto highlights ongoing struggles with insurance companies' utilization management practices.

Newsom stated that he would address menopause coverage in his budget proposal set for January, rather than through new legislation, as he has historically been cautious about bills with associated costs.

Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, the bill's author, remains committed to pursuing legislation that limits insurance companies' ability to deny necessary treatments. As the debate continues, it raises critical questions about the power of insurance companies versus the needs of patients and medical professionals.