Minister in call for women to help influence new health strategy

I am proud that in the UK we have the best healthcare system in the world. When called upon we can be reassured that we are getting the finest possible care from the NHS.

Research shows that people across the Midlands agree that the NHS provides a high level of care. During the pandemic patient satisfaction rose to 86 per cent according to the Patient Experience Platform, a year on year increase of 12.8 per cent.

The incredible NHS and social care staff work tirelessly to make sure we are looked after - both mentally and physically, and I know that the work of health workers across the Midlands is incredibly appreciated by the wider public.

But we cannot ignore the clear differences between the health outcomes of men and women.

Less is known about conditions that only affect women, including common gynaecological conditions which can have severe impacts on wellbeing, but for which there is currently little treatment.

On average, 40 per cent of women need 10 or more GP appointments before being referred to a specialist. And studies suggest gender biases in clinical trials and research are contributing to worse health outcomes for women.

In the Midlands, more than a third of women said that their mental health had suffered as a result of the pandemic. Yet, sadly, very few reach out to access support.

We want to better understand why that is, and where we can improve the health service in general for women across the region.

This Government wants to better understand women’s experiences of the health and care system, that is why DHSC has launched a call for evidence which is open until June 13.

As the Minister for Women I can’t stress how important this work is as we seek to ensure that this country gives everyone the opportunity they deserve in life.

We are calling on all women - friends, family and colleagues - to share their experiences - both positive and negative – and help form the basis of our Women’s Health Strategy.

Today is International Day of Action on Women’s Health. What an appropriate time then for you, the women of the Midlands, to have your say on the future of your healthcare system.

We want the strategy to reflect all the conditions that affect women across their whole life course - from mental health issues, addiction or neurological conditions like dementia, or autism, as well as issues relating specifically to women such as gynaecological conditions, menopause and pregnancy and post-natal support.

Women themselves are also diverse and this strategy needs to work for every single one of them.

I urge every woman, carer and clinician of all ages and backgrounds to respond to the call for evidence, ensuring we capture the varying health issues women experience over their lives and the significant differences between women in their access and use of services.

The call for evidence is quick to fill in and easily accessible from your mobile phone. I urge you to tell your friends and family that we need to hear from them.

Make sure you visit the call for evidence today: https://consultations.dhsc.gov.uk/talkwomenshealth.