A study by Guardian states that women are less likely to be given CPR as compared to men, but is that all women are deprived of when it comes to healthcare?
It might be shocking for some of you that addressing the disparities in healthcare could boost the economy by at least $1 trillion annually by 2040. And nothing better than this stat could relate health to the economy. It is 2024, and there is still not enough information for women to better care for themselves. There are prejudices regarding menstruation and contraception and diseases surrounding it – these issues are still not talked about enough, and often, girls are expected to just ‘find their way around’ these issues as they grow up.
The difficulties women encounter when seeking medical care manifest in various ways across different diseases and sectors of society. Concerning the possible economic outcomes of tackling these issues, every age group and region could see advantages, especially working-age women who hold the most potential.
When talking about women’s health or ‘women’s issues’, most people forget that there are other health conditions that affect women, and it is not just about birth care and menstruation. In fact, only 5% of a female’s health burdens consist of maternal or gynecological problems. And not just this, the same study also shows that compared to men, the chances of efficacy with certain medicines are less for women.
There is a lot of evidence that shows severe steps must be taken now to break the patterns and provide for a better future. As we move towards a future where we want to bridge the gender gap in healthcare, business leaders also have a part to play:
- Invest in research and development focused on women to tackle the lack of women in health research. This involves boosting female representation in clinical trials and ensuring studies acknowledge sex and gender disparities.
- Revise medical education programs and residency training to incorporate specialized training on sex and gender. It will give healthcare professionals the information needed to offer improved care for women.
- Create support groups for illnesses that primarily impact women, like endometriosis and menopause. These organizations can offer assistance and resources to aid women in improving their health.
- Use digital health tools such as remote monitoring and patient engagement platforms to enhance the availability of healthcare services for women, especially those living in rural or underserved regions.
- Advocate for sharing salary information to guarantee fair pay for women. This can aid in decreasing the gender wage disparity in the healthcare sector.
- Offer specialized mentorship and assistance to women to aid in their career advancement. This involves providing educational chances and fostering a feeling of inclusion among all staff members.
- Create a legal basis for workplace equality and challenge societal norms and stereotypes blocking women’s progress. This involves establishing policies to promote women’s leadership and overcoming structural obstacles to their progression.
- Promote a cultural change in companies by recognizing achievements in women’s health and incorporating women’s health into all aspects of business operations, not just limited to research departments.
Women’s well-being and progress in society are not isolated issues; they are fundamental to societal health. Improved health and well-being for women have a positive impact that reaches families, communities, and nations. We can reduce health disparities and enhance the prospects of a united worldwide development by utilizing a comprehensive strategy and continuous funding.
