Effective Strategy for Women’s Health
The conditions created for an effective strategy for women’s health have not been fulfilled, which is a shame. For instance, no consultation is carried out, while the participation of women is crucial. This is just a start, and more needs to be done to improve women’s health.
Political Involvement
Politicians and the Ministry of Health have a mission to improve women’s health. Researchers have calculated that a lack of knowledge about women’s bodies costs society 7.6 billion annually. This is due to the long diagnostic period, resulting in higher health costs and longer treatment periods for women.
Actions have been taken to inform politicians, including speaking to political parties and deputies to include the national strategy for women’s health in their election programs.
Current Status
The interest group will continue to push for the national strategy for women’s health until it is fully absorbed by the Ministry of Health. Other countries, such as England, have already made it part of their political agenda.
A meeting was held with experts in January to inform politicians, and examples from abroad were presented. The interest group also participated in a round table discussion in the lower house, explaining the importance of the strategy and what can be learned from other countries.
Importance of National Strategy
The ideal outcome is for the Ministry of Health to develop a long-term strategy, resulting in sustainable changes. Cross-departmental coordination is essential, and cooperation with various ministries is necessary. The entire government must support this initiative.
Less than one percent of research funding goes to women’s health, despite women living in poor health compared to men. The knowledge gap about women’s bodies is significant, resulting in inadequate care. The national strategy for women’s health can make a difference by providing further training and education for doctors and nurses.
