England’s new health strategy tackles gender bias

UK – In a bid to tackle the nation’s systemic healthcare issues, the UK government has unveiled a Women’s Health Strategy that aims to close the gender health gap. Part of the strategy includes an investment of £10m ($12m, €11.8m) for a breast screening programme, the removal of additional barriers to IVF for female same-sex couples, and improved specialist endometriosis services.

Across all healthcare needs, the strategy will also improve data gathering, research and women’s health-focused education and training. Through these measures, the strategy aims to address and rebalance the reality that women on average spend more of their life in poor health than men, despite usually living longer. ‘Our health and care system only works if it works for everyone,’ comments Steve Barclay, health and social care secretary for the UK government. ‘It is not right that 51% of our population are disadvantaged in accessing the care they need, simply because of their sex.’

While we’ve previously explored the brands stepping in to support women at various life stages, this government initiative sets an example to other global policy-makers who are hoping to advance and bolster Women's Futures.