Claire Gill: A Champion for Women’s Health and Advocacy

Claire Gill is a notable figure in public health and advocacy, specifically in the areas of bone health and menopause. She currently serves as CEO of the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) and is the founder of the National Menopause Foundation (NMF). Her career spans over two decades, focusing on nonprofit leadership, public relations, and advancing women’s health issues.

Early Career and Foundation of NMF

Gill has a background in marketing and public relations, which she leveraged in her work for both for-profit and nonprofit organizations. Her commitment to addressing underserved health issues became prominent with the establishment of the National Menopause Foundation in 2019, a non-profit dedicated to increasing awareness of menopause and providing resources to support women during this life stage. The foundation also advocates for workplace policies that support women experiencing menopausal symptoms, a subject that is frequently underrepresented in health and corporate discussions.

Role as CEO at the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation

In 2020, Gill took on the role of CEO of BHOF, formerly known as the National Osteoporosis Foundation. She brought with her a vision focused on preventing osteoporosis and advocating for policies that address bone health across age groups. At BHOF, Gill launched initiatives like the National Bone Health Policy Institute to engage policymakers and stakeholders in supporting bone health across the lifespan. Her approach to raising awareness of osteoporosis—a condition that affects around 54 million Americans—includes enhancing the organization’s focus on advocacy and public education.

Key Initiatives and Advocacy

Gill’s advocacy work extends to addressing the effects of menopause and osteoporosis, often overlooked yet significantly impactful areas of women’s health. At NMF, she initiated research collaborations to highlight the impacts of menopause, such as studies on how supportive workplace policies can help retain talent and improve productivity among midlife women. In addition, she has been instrumental in creating educational resources and partnering with stakeholders to promote research and policy aimed at improving menopausal healthcare access.

Her work at BHOF has been particularly impactful in bridging the gap between healthcare providers, patients, and policymakers. Gill has led efforts to include osteoporosis in national health discussions, emphasizing preventive care to manage the risks of fractures and other complications associated with the disease.

Educational Campaigns and Media Engagement

Gill’s influence is amplified through media engagement and educational outreach. She frequently appears on podcasts, interviews, and webinars, discussing the importance of supporting women’s health through the menopausal transition and bone health maintenance. For instance, on the “Beyond the Paper Gown” podcast, she shared insights into managing menopause and emphasized the importance of early education on bone health to prevent osteoporosis. Through these platforms, she demystifies complex health issues and provides women with practical advice on navigating midlife health changes.

Conclusion

Claire Gill’s work has reshaped how menopause and bone health are approached both in healthcare settings and in public discourse. By establishing the NMF and taking on a leadership role at BHOF, she has brought much-needed attention to these areas, creating a foundation for future advancements in women’s health. Through her advocacy, Gill has empowered women with knowledge and resources, encouraging a proactive approach to managing their health.

FAQs

Q: What is the National Menopause Foundation (NMF)?
A: The National Menopause Foundation, founded by Claire Gill, is a nonprofit organization focused on raising awareness of menopause, providing resources, and supporting research. NMF addresses the physical, emotional, and social impacts of menopause, helping women navigate this life stage with accurate information and community support.

Q: How does Claire Gill’s work at BHOF impact osteoporosis awareness?
A: At BHOF, Gill has spearheaded initiatives to prevent osteoporosis through public education and policy advocacy. Her work involves promoting bone health from an early age to prevent complications like fractures, which are common in osteoporosis patients.

Q: What are some of Claire Gill’s main achievements?
A: Gill has been pivotal in establishing policies supporting bone health, creating the NMF, and launching educational campaigns on menopause. Her efforts have improved public awareness, policy support, and health resources for women.

Q: Why is menopause support important in the workplace?
A: According to Gill’s work with NMF, menopause support benefits both employees and employers by fostering a supportive environment. Providing menopause-related resources and benefits can enhance productivity, reduce turnover, and create a more inclusive workplace culture.

Gill’s work has redefined menopause and osteoporosis conversations, ensuring they are seen as essential aspects of public health. Her continued efforts highlight the importance of accessible health resources and advocacy for women at every stage of life.