Date of Award

Fall 11-16-2025

Degree Type

Open Access Capstone

Department

Nursing

Community Engaged/Serving

Part of the UMass Boston Community-Engaged Teaching, Research, and Service Series. //scholarworks.umb.edu/engage

Keywords

menopause, perimenopause, electronic medical record, provider education, health equity

Abstract

Abstract

Perimenopause and menopause represent universal, transformative life stages that affect more than 63 million women in the United States. Yet, this phase remains among the most neglected areas in women’s health. Despite robust evidence supporting the safety and effectiveness of both hormonal and non-hormonal therapies, millions of women remain undiagnosed or undertreated due to fragmented healthcare systems, limited provider education, absence of EMR screening prompts, and inconsistent insurance coverage.

This Capstone Project synthesizes current research and population health data to evaluate how integrating a standardized menopause SmartSet within the electronic medical record (EMR), coupled with structured provider education, can enhance access, quality, and equity of care for women aged 35 to 64. A PRISMA-guided literature review identified 28 studies published between 2018 and 2025 examining menopause care, digital decision-support tools, and educational interventions. Findings revealed persistent deficits in provider knowledge, documentation, and equitable access to care.

The proposed dual intervention—EMR-based screening integrated with provider education—addresses both structural and educational barriers within primary care. Grounded in the Quadruple Aim and AACN Essentials (2021), this project positions nurse practitioners as leaders in advancing digital innovation, promoting health equity, and improving midlife women’s health outcomes. Implementing standardized SmartSets and education initiatives has the potential to transform menopause management into a proactive, data-driven, and equitable component of primary care.

Comments

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