SACRAMENTO — Governor Gavin Newsom introduced a plan Monday to help Californians get better medical care during menopause. The proposal is part of the 2026-27 state budget.
According to a state press release, the proposal aims to address health issues that have often been overlooked. The plan would require certain health insurance plans and Medi-Cal—the state’s health coverage program for people with low incomes—to cover FDA-approved treatments for menopause symptoms. This change is intended to make prescription drugs and essential care more affordable for patients in all stages of menopause.
New Screening Standards
Under the new rules, health plans must ensure that patients 40 and older are screened for menopause. These screenings would take place during regular visits to primary care doctors or OB-GYNs (specialists in women’s health), helping doctors find and treat symptoms early.
To support these changes, the legislative package includes several initiatives focused on education and training:
- A $3 million statewide campaign to educate the public and healthcare providers about menopause-related health issues.
- Extra funding to encourage doctors to get special training in menopause care.
- A law requiring insurance companies to tell their members which menopause treatments and services their plans cover.
Improving Quality of Care
State officials said the proposal follows through on a prior commitment to women's health. By increasing awareness and the number of qualified doctors, the state aims to improve the quality of medical care for residents as they age.
If the budget proposal is approved, the requirements for insurance coverage and screenings would apply to most health insurance plans based in California. This move aims to ensure these health issues are no longer overlooked by the medical community.
