On June 5, 2025, the Cleveland Clinic hosted its Women’s Health Forum at the InterContinental Cleveland Hotel, gathering hundreds of women and health professionals for a day dedicated to empowerment, education, and wellness. The event marked the one-year anniversary of the clinic’s Women’s Comprehensive Health and Research Center and spotlighted the importance of personalized care for women in midlife and beyond.
Focusing on Holistic Care
The day began with a compelling keynote conversation between Maria Shriver and Dr. Beri Ridgeway. Shriver, a long-time advocate for women’s health and founder of the Women’s Alzheimer’s Movement, emphasized the need to treat women as whole individuals, particularly as they navigate midlife changes.
Dr. Ridgeway, who leads Cleveland Clinic’s strategic health initiatives, reflected on the milestones achieved since the center’s launch. Over 8,600 patients have received care, and more than 14,000 appointments have been scheduled, signaling a growing commitment to tailored healthcare solutions for women. She underscored the critical need for awareness and proactive management of risks like heart disease, cognitive decline, and hormone changes.
The speakers agreed that the conversation around women’s health must extend beyond symptoms to embrace education, empowerment, and access to comprehensive care.
Tackling Timely Topics in Women’s Health
Throughout the day, forum attendees heard from leading medical experts across multiple specialties. Panel discussions covered the most pressing concerns faced by women in midlife, including hormonal changes, cardiovascular health, weight management, and sleep disorders.
In one session, physicians addressed the complexities of menopause and hormone therapy, clarifying misconceptions and discussing the benefits and risks of treatment. Another panel focused on heart and brain health, providing actionable tips for maintaining physical and cognitive vitality.
A particularly engaging talk explored the nuances of aging gracefully, with dermatologists and wellness experts offering advice on everything from hair thinning and skin care to supplement routines and stress management. Attendees were encouraged to view aging not as a decline but as an opportunity to prioritize health and lifestyle changes that enhance quality of life.
Celebrating Resilience and Leadership
During a midday fireside chat, author Janice Kaplan shared insights from her work on gratitude and the science of happiness. Her remarks resonated with the audience, many of whom were seeking not just medical advice but emotional and psychological tools to better navigate their lives.
The day concluded with a high-powered panel of women CEOs discussing the intersection of leadership and health. These executives spoke candidly about their own journeys, the importance of setting boundaries, and the strategies they use to stay centered amid professional and personal demands. Their stories served as a reminder that health and success are not mutually exclusive but deeply connected.
Addressing Gaps and Building Access
Coinciding with the forum, Cleveland Clinic unveiled findings from a national survey exploring women’s understanding of their own health. Key insights revealed gaps in awareness and challenges in access.
A majority of women underestimated their risk for heart disease, despite it being the leading cause of death for women. Many also expressed confusion or concern about menopause treatments, citing mixed messages from healthcare providers. Financial barriers were commonly cited, with many women reporting that the cost of care or wellness activities prevented them from prioritizing their health.
Experts at the forum responded with calls for continued research, better communication, and more inclusive health services. The survey underscored the need for institutions to meet women where they are—financially, culturally, and emotionally.
Extending the Impact
The forum also included a boutique marketplace featuring local artisans and women-owned businesses, reflecting the clinic’s broader commitment to supporting female entrepreneurship and community health.
For those unable to attend, a digital version of the forum is set to launch mid-June, offering access to panel recordings and additional content. Organizers hope this extended reach will bring vital health information to more women nationwide.
The 2025 Women’s Health Forum marked not only a celebration of medical advancement but a cultural shift toward seeing women’s midlife health as a priority, not an afterthought. As the event concluded, participants left with more than just brochures—they carried a renewed sense of agency, understanding, and support.
