New Jersey Senate Bill S2695

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/12/24
• Refer: 2/12/24

Caption

Requires menopause information to be distributed under certain circumstances.

Impact

The implementation of S2695 would require the New Jersey Department of Health to prepare an informational pamphlet that details menopause and its associated stages. This pamphlet must be published on the department's website within 90 days of the bill's effective date to facilitate dissemination. Health care providers will be obligated to present this material to qualifying patients starting 180 days after the bill's enactment. This initiative is expected to enhance awareness and understanding among women regarding menopause, potentially improving health outcomes by promoting informed discussions between patients and their doctors.

Summary

Senate Bill 2695, introduced in the New Jersey Legislature, mandates that licensed health care professionals provide female patients aged 40 and older with educational material about perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause during their annual physical examinations. This requirement aims to ensure that women are informed about a significant life stage that can impact their health and well-being. The bill emphasizes the importance of patient education in understanding menopause-related issues, which can often be overlooked in standard health care practices.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on improving women's health, it may face various levels of support and opposition. Supporters may argue that this educational requirement addresses a significant gap in women's health care and empowers patients with knowledge about menopause, which is often stigmatized or inadequately addressed in medical settings. Conversely, opponents may express concerns regarding the imposition of additional requirements on health care professionals, questioning whether the proposed educational materials will sufficiently address the complexities of menopause or whether it may inadvertently lead to the oversimplification of women's health issues.