Why is there still a gender health gap?

While women in the UK live longer than men on average, they also spend more time in pain or poor health finds government research.

Furthermore, 63% of women feel they are not taken seriously in healthcare settings, compared to their male counterparts.

Why are women so frequently dismissed by medical professionals? 

There are a plethora of reasons why women are so frequently dismissed by medical professionals, with some of the biggest catalysts being:

• A significant lack of research into women’s health

• Damaging gender stereotypes

• Absence of compulsory training on women’s conditions

• Fear of ‘wasting’ medical professionals’ time despite having a genuine reason to seek help

What changes are being made to close the gender health gap? 

Last year, the UK Government Women’s Health Strategy highlighted the urgent need to address the gender health gap.

The strategy, which is the first of its kind, aims to tackle “deep-rooted, systemic issues within the health and care system to improve the health and wellbeing of women, and reset how the health and care system listens to women.”

We have also seen an active effort to close the data gap on women’s health and attitudes towards their treatment in healthcare settings.

It is hoped that this research will help create a clearer picture of the realities of women’s healthcare so that clinicians can make better decisions and ensure all female patients are taken seriously.

Women’s Health Strategy for England also pinpointed a need for improved fertility services, as well as ensuring women have access to detailed and up-to-date health information and advice.

How can healthcare staff help make a difference? 

While government policy arguably plays the most significant role in closing the gender health gap, healthcare staff can still help implement change on the ground!

For example:

• Addressing bias and discrimination

• Facilitate and support patients’ voices to ask questions

• Advocate for improved access to healthcare services for women

• Multidisciplinary care – collaborate with your colleagues to make positive change

• Raise awareness for women’s health, including preventative measures and early detection

Here at Amarè, we’re delighted to see the UK government moving the needle forward when it comes to closing the gender health gap and hopes to one day see a world where health disparities no longer exist.

Want to help make a difference? Find out more about getting into healthcare by visiting our careers page or give our specialist consultants a call on 0203 929 4017.