Healthcare is a fundamental human right, yet gender-based disparities continue to undermine the health and well-being of women and girls. These disparities manifest in various forms, including unequal access to healthcare services, inadequate representation in health policies, and the impact of societal norms that foster inequality. The implications not only affect the immediate health of women and girls but also entrench cycles of poverty, limiting educational opportunities, and stifling economic growth. As such, addressing gender-based disparities in healthcare must be central to policy formulation to build a more equitable society.
What do Gender-Based Disparities look like for Women and Girls?
Gender-based disparities in healthcare are evident in numerous aspects. Women and girls often face barriers to accessing quality healthcare services due to economic, social, and cultural factors. In many low- and middle-income countries, financial constraints, distance to health facilities, and lack of transportation affect women’s access to healthcare. Moreover, societal norms and gender roles can limit women’s autonomy in making health-related decisions, often requiring them to seek permission from male family members before accessing care.
For women and girls, inadequate access to reproductive health services is a significant concern. Lack of access to contraception, maternal healthcare, and safe abortion services leads to higher rates of unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and maternal mortality. Additionally, gender-based violence, including domestic violence and sexual assault, is a major health issue that often goes unaddressed due to stigma, lack of legal protection, and insufficient support services.
Mental health is another area where gender disparities are evident. Women are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, yet they are often underdiagnosed or receive inadequate care. This is exacerbated by the societal expectation that women should prioritize the well-being of others over their own, leading to neglect of their mental health needs.
For girls, these disparities set the stage for lifelong disadvantages. Limited access to education on sexual and reproductive health, coupled with early marriage and childbirth, curtails their opportunities for personal and professional development. The cycle of poverty continues as these girls are unable to reach their full potential, impacting their lives and also the well-being of future generations.
Why Gender-Based Disparities Must Be Central to Policy Formulation
Addressing gender-based disparities in healthcare requires an approach that places the health needs of women and girls at the centre of policy formulation. Gender-sensitive health policies are essential to ensure that healthcare systems are responsive to the unique needs of women and girls. This includes increasing funding for women’s health services, ensuring equitable access to healthcare, and promoting research that considers gender as a critical variable.
Policies must address the social determinants of health that affect women and girls including tackling poverty, improving education, and challenging harmful gender norms that restrict women’s access to healthcare. Additionally, healthcare policies should include measures to combat gender-based violence and provide comprehensive support services for survivors.
Investing in the health of women and girls is a smart economic strategy. When women and girls are healthy, they will better contribute to their families, communities, and economies. Ensuring their access to quality healthcare is essential for achieving broader development goals, including gender equality, poverty reduction, and sustainable development.
Conclusion
Gender-based disparities undermine the health, well-being, and future potential of half the world’s population. For policymakers, prioritizing gender equity in healthcare is not optional but a necessity. It is time to place the health needs of women and girls at the centre of policy formulation, ensuring that healthcare systems are inclusive, equitable, and capable of supporting the health and rights of all individuals.
