Background
Menopause is a natural stage of life that affects a significant portion of the working-age population. The variety of menopausal symptoms can impact health, quality of life, and work ability in many ways. Research has shown a clear need to strengthen menopause competence among healthcare professionals, as the physical, psychological, and social effects of menopause often go unrecognized or untreated—placing a burden on individuals, healthcare systems, and workplaces alike.
Objectives and Measures
The goal of developing a menopause competence model within the VAITO project is to increase the knowledge and skills of primary and occupational healthcare professionals in recognizing menopause symptoms, understanding treatment options, and appreciating the broader significance of menopause in life. In addition, a practical model for the management of menopausal symptoms in primary and occupational healthcare will be developed and implemented.
The project activities include organizing training packages for primary and occupational healthcare professionals on various menopause-related topics and developing a practical model for menopause management. Materials produced in the project will be compiled into a menopause information portal hosted on the website of Korento ry. The project is carried out in cooperation with primary and occupational healthcare organizations operating in the Pirkanmaa region.
The project also promotes multidisciplinary collaboration and networking in menopause competence among healthcare professionals by establishing a regional healthcare network in Pirkanmaa and disseminating the operational model developed within the VAITO project.
Target Groups
The primary target groups of the project are professionals in primary and occupational healthcare. The secondary target groups include people of menopausal age, their close ones, and employers.
Impacts
As a result of the project activities, healthcare professionals’ competence and treatment models will be strengthened, and service providers will be able to offer higher-quality and more accessible services. This will ensure more timely and expert guidance and care for clients. At the same time, the stigma surrounding menopause will continue to diminish. Together, we can make menopause an accepted and valued part of life.
Funding
ESF+ European Social Fund 2021–2027
Partners
Gynecological Patient Organization Korento ry, Mehiläinen Working Life Services, The Wellbeing Services County of Pirkanmaa, Pirte Occupational Healthcare.
The project’s implementation language is Finnish.