Kay Jackson’s journey in healthcare began in a beloved community midwifery and gynecology practice. However, the landscape changed dramatically when the practice was acquired by a medical conglomerate that began implementing computerized systems in every clinic room. As she was convalescing from breast cancer, Kay was granted an unprecedented 45 minutes for each appointment. This rare opportunity allowed her to reconnect with her passion for patient care. She cherished the time spent listening to women’s stories, sharing laughter and tears, and providing thoughtful care before conducting any examinations.

Despite her newfound appreciation for patient interactions, returning to the hectic pace of seeing up to 20 patients daily was daunting, particularly as she grappled with symptoms that many women face during perimenopause and menopause—broken sleep, night sweats, and cognitive challenges. Recognizing the need for a change, Kay established her private practice, Off the Grid Midwifery and Women's Health. With two decades of experience as a midwife and nurse practitioner, she took a leap into entrepreneurship, contracting with major insurance plans and initially enjoying financial success. However, as reimbursement rates declined and the demands of being on-call took a toll, Kay made the decision to retire from the 24/7 lifestyle of midwifery.

Determined to help women navigate their own journeys through menopause, Kay embraced a functional medicine approach. This path led her to explore genetic testing, which provided valuable insights for accurately prescribing medications for mood-related issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as alleviating symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. Kay discovered that the first medication prescribed to her exacerbated her conditions, highlighting the importance of personalized care. The genetic tests revealed a crucial trait that required specific daily supplements to ensure effective use of antidepressants.

Driven by her own experiences and the desire to empower other women, Kay delved into the world of functional health and medicine. This approach emphasizes understanding the root causes of health issues rather than merely treating symptoms. Kay believes that achieving optimal health requires a holistic understanding of how hormones, gut health, and mood interconnect. Through her practice, she provides women with the guidance they need to navigate their unique health challenges, ensuring that they receive comprehensive support on their journey to wellness.