Dr Alison Payne

Kia ora,

Women in their 40’s and 50’s face a challenging time – hormones, age, domestic and work commitments area powerful mix.
As an experienced GP (and a post menopausal woman!), I’m aware of the issues that arise as we approach and pass the end of our reproductive years into our ‘second spring’. I want to help educate and empower women so that we can navigate these challenges and optimise our health.

Perimenopause hormone fluctuation can cause psychological and cognitive (brain) disturbance as well as the classical ‘hot flushes and night sweats’. It’s important to recognise this – many women are offered antidepressants when what they really need is to address the hormone fluctuation. Bleeding patterns can be all over the place too, in both frequency and quantity. Anything goes as the ovaries start to decline in function. Complimentary remedies work well for many women. Let’s not forget the importance of lifestyle– not just for perimenopause but for our general physical and mental health.Not everyone ‘suffers’ from menopause; a smooth transition is experienced by many. However, for those who are struggling or want help to tease out what’s going on - my clinic is for you. My GP training means I will not just look at you as a pair of ageing ovaries!

The risks of HRT have been exaggerated, and the benefits glossed over, often to women’s detriment. I strongly believe in shared decision making. We can decide for ourselves what risk we can live with for a good quality of life. A large glass of wine a day increases your risk of breast cancer more than HRT – and the latter benefits bone density and your heart as well as alleviating menopause symptoms. Now I’m reaching the end of my career, I’m narrowing my focus from the full gamut of primary care to a couple of my special interests. Positive feedback about the menopause care I’ve provided while working for Steve at Martinborough Medical Centre led me to plan a dedicated clinic to focus on menopause andwomen’s health concerns.

What you need to know if you want to come to my clinic

  • Appointments are available two - four weekly on Thursday afternoons.

  • I operate as a ‘private provider/specialist’ so cannot claim health subsidies; all appointments will be charged a standard fee with/without a CSC and whatever primary health provider you are registered with.

  • 50% of my profits will be donated to Women’s Refuge, The Ruth Project and Martinborough Food Bank.

  • I request payment online preferably in advance and definitely on the day; I cannot carry debt.

  • If you are experiencing financial hardship, we can discuss a payment plan.

  • If you must cancel, please do so asap so that someone else can have your appointment.

  • I will send a copy of my notes to your GP unless you specifically request otherwise.

Fees:

First appointment – ½ hour $125 (if you think you need longer, 1 hour - $250)

Follow up appointment – ½ hour $100

¼ hour $50

Repeat prescriptions can be issued by me ($20) or by your GP practice once you are up and running.

Procedure to make an appointment:

1. Contact reception@mmc.net.nz

2. Reception will email a health questionnaire to you.

3. Return the completed questionnaire to reception (email or hard copy), make and pay for your

appointment – a receipt will be emailed to you.

4. Reception will enter your details on MMC practice computer system so that I can record notes and

measurements in a standard fashion and arrange blood tests at no charge.

5. Come to your appointment – please check in at reception so I know you’ve arrived!