First published: 15/07/2024
Image: North News and Pictures
More action is needed to narrow gaps in care and improve women's health outcomes, according to a recent study conducted by the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB).
The assessment highlighted significant disparities in the treatment and management of conditions such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and the unequal benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during menopause between women in affluent and deprived communities.
In response to these findings, a large-scale survey has been launched as part of an ambitious initiative to position the region "at the heart of a revolution in women's health." This initiative, known as the Big Conversation, aims to gather comprehensive insights from women across the region about their healthcare experiences, particularly focusing on the issues identified by the ICB.
The Big Conversation: Gathering Lived Experiences
The Big Conversation was launched last week with the goal of understanding the real-world impact of healthcare disparities on women. By collecting detailed feedback from women, the initiative seeks to learn from their lived experiences and identify actionable solutions to improve health outcomes.
Samantha Allen, chief executive of the ICB, emphasised the urgency of addressing these issues. "Women live longer than men but spend more of their lives sick or disabled," she noted. Allen pointed out that many women feel their health concerns are not adequately addressed by healthcare professionals. "The NHS has not always understood women's health needs as well as it could," she said. "We need to change that. If we can make things better for girls and women, everyone benefits."
Focus Areas of the Survey
The survey will cover a wide range of topics crucial to women's health, including:
- Menstrual Health and Gynaecological Conditions: Understanding the prevalence and impact of conditions like endometriosis and PCOS.
- Menopause: Investigating the disparities in access to and benefits from hormone replacement therapy.
- Cancer: Gathering experiences related to women's cancers, such as breast and cervical cancer.
- Fertility: Assessing the support available for women facing fertility issues.
- Pregnancy Loss and Postnatal Support: Exploring the care provided to women who have experienced pregnancy loss and the support available after childbirth.
Aiming for Equitable Healthcare
The initiative underscores the need for a systemic change in how women's health is approached and managed. By highlighting the discrepancies in care and actively seeking input from women across different socio-economic backgrounds, the ICB aims to develop more equitable healthcare solutions.
The Big Conversation represents a significant step towards recognising and addressing the unique health challenges faced by women. It calls for a collective effort to ensure that women's health issues are given the attention and resources they deserve, paving the way for improved health outcomes for all women in the region.
Conclusion
As the survey gathers momentum, the insights gained will be critical in shaping future healthcare policies and practices. The call to action for a women's 'health revolution' is a powerful reminder that improving women's health is not just a benefit to women but to society as a whole. By addressing these disparities and ensuring that women's voices are heard, the initiative aims to foster a healthcare system that truly meets the needs of all its patients.
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