Women's Healthcare - Featured Writers (2)
Featured Writer (1) : Vibhuti Puthiyaveetil, California, USA
Women are fundamental members of society who are often underestimated and underappreciated. As a recurring perspective in history, women have always dealt with being second in careers and receiving fewer opportunities. Though time has passed, women have still faced difficulties, especially in the healthcare field.
Overall, in the past year compared to twenty years ago, there have been more women accepted into medical schools. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) reports that in the year 2022-2023, 52% of medical school graduates were women and the percentage has increased since 2000-2001, where 47% of all medical school graduates were women. As more women are pursuing medicine, more jobs are being taken by women. However, the leadership opportunities and positions in the healthcare field aren’t reflecting the rising number of female healthcare practitioners. While observing the percentage of women leading department chairs, 15% of positions were filled by women in 2018, while 25% of positions were filled in 2023. Although the percentage has increased, the number of female medical school graduates doesn’t correlate to the number of women in leadership positions, highlighting that women still aren’t receiving the positions that they are working for.
The pay inequality gap may have decreased in the past years, but it is still occuring today. In similar settings in the workplace, women have reported obtaining lesser salaries compared to their male coworkers. A female clinical MD full professor receives 83 cents less than a male professor, and though the salary difference may seem insignificant, over time, the bridge will expand in academic environments.
Though there seems to be a deficiency in female equality in the medical field, there is still research conducted on female inclusivity in the field and resources provided to ensure safety and protection at workplaces. By improving the condition in the healthcare field, more women will be compelled to join and not be driven away by the fear of being discriminated against while working. This will not only increase the opportunities available for women and chances for them to succeed, but will also improve the academic medical field overall.
Featured Writer (2) : Amber, USA
Tackling Global Healthcare Inequities: A Focus on Maternal Health
Globally, maternal health remains a pressing issue, with disparities particularly pronounced in low-income countries. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 287,000 women die each year from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth, with 94% of these deaths occurring in resource-poor settings. These alarming statistics underscore the need for urgent interventions.
A lack of access to skilled healthcare professionals during childbirth significantly contributes to maternal mortality. In sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia, the ratio of trained midwives and obstetricians to patients is shockingly low. This shortage results in preventable complications like hemorrhage, sepsis, and obstructed labor becoming fatal.
Further exacerbating the crisis in limited access to prenatal care. Many women cannot afford regular check-ups, leading to undiagnosed conditions such as anemia, high blood pressure, and infections. Additionally, cultural barriers and gender inequality prevent women from seeking timely medical assistance.
To bridge these gaps, global health initiatives must prioritize training local healthcare workers and improving access to essential supplies like clean birthing kits and medication. Moreover, fostering community outreach programs can break down societal barriers and empower women to seek necessary care.
Addressing maternal health disparities not only saves lives but strengthens entire communities. By investing in this critical area, we can create a healthier, more equitable world for future generations.
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