Dr Rachel Kalman1
1InsideOut Institute, the University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
Biography:
Dr Rachel Kalman is a GP in Sydney working in general practice and at a private eating disorders clinic. She is also a GP Adviser and Research Officer for the InsideOut Institute at Sydney University where she is involved in both research and education. Dr Kalman is passionate about improving outcomes for patients and families and helping health professionals gain confidence in caring for people with eating disorders, from screening through to management.
Aims:
Eating disorders (EDs) have an increased incidence during perimenopause and menopause, influenced by complex biopsychosocial factors. Prevalence is estimated at 3.5%, with up to 80% of midlife women reporting body image dissatisfaction. Many women during menopause receive quality, holistic support from engaged and skilled GPs. Yet, EDs remain under recognised in this population. How can screening and digital tools be embedded into everyday menopause care to improve early identification and management of EDs?
Methods:
We mapped the integration of the InsideOut Institute screener (IOI-S), validated for use in Australian primary care, into a standard menopause consultation. We also explored how the InsideOut GP Hub and associated evidence-based digital therapies can support risk identification and stepped care within routine clinical workflows.
Results:
The menopause consultation represents an opportunity to screen for EDs in an at-risk population. Incorporating validated screening tools and digital resources enhances GP confidence and facilitates early identification and intervention.
Conclusions:
Improving awareness of the heightened risk of EDs during midlife and embedding brief screening into routine consultations can reduce barriers to detection and management. Translating evidence into accessible clinical practice has the potential to improve mental and physical health outcomes of women and strengthen holistic menopause care.