On my most recent podcast, I spoke with broadcaster Kaye Adams who, as a journalist, asked me some really thoughtful questions about the state of the HRT debate within the media. To use her words, “something’s not quite right here.” She also asked about my feelings on the level of resistance to me and my work.
This is not something I have spoken about publicly because, as I said to Kaye on the podcast, it is upsetting. Not only because of the personal impact, but also the negative effects it has had on many women I see in my clinic and also women globally. These effects to women are the reasons that, despite the personal and professional toll of recent media coverage, particularly the BBC Panorama programme, I’ve continued to support patients, lead research, and advocate for better healthcare for women.
The BBC Panorama programme attempted to frame a biased narrative, which has ultimately restricted women’s access to informed care. We have submitted a formal legal complaint to Ofcom and await its response.
In parallel, Newson Health has raised formal concerns about bias during a routine CQC inspection; this resulted in the inspection being thrown out, and the clinic’s rating remains ‘Good.’ Newson Health is not under investigation.
As for the British Menopause Society, which has also spoken out against me, it is important to note that it holds no regulatory power over clinical practice nor any statutory or educational standing. The BMS is a charity.
I recently completed my annual medical appraisal. I was extremely encouraged by the outcome, which confirmed there are no concerns about my work as a doctor, educator, or researcher and I can continue my work as normal as I have for the last 31 years. My appraiser remarked on my ability to maintain high professional standards and support others, even under intense public pressure.
My focus remains where it always has been: on the health and wellbeing of women, which are currently under threat. I will continue using evidence-based research, a wealth of clinical experience and knowledge, education, and advocacy to challenge gross misinformation and support patients and colleagues alike. These are the standards I hold myself to — and always will.
