Advancing Women's Health: Opportunities to Propel Forward

In a recent article published in Becker's Hospital Review, Dr. Julia Clark and Kaajal Singh, MHA, the directors of a website dedicated to improving health research and outcomes for women, shared their insights on the subject.

The article highlights the importance of bottom-up strategies in improving health outcomes for women. One such strategy is mobile care delivery, which is being utilised for services such as vaccinations and postpartum care. This approach is proving effective in reaching women in their communities, thereby improving access to essential health services.

Another initiative aimed at improving maternal health outcomes is the Transforming Maternal Health Model, an initiative by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This model aims to improve maternal health outcomes among Medicaid patients.

Providers and health agencies are being worked with to enhance access to clinical trials and address social drivers of health for women. Population health initiatives and metrics that replicate value-based care models are being implemented to strive for high-quality care across the continuum for women.

Technology-driven wellness strategies, provider education, and community and health plan partnerships are being invested in to improve health outcomes for women. For instance, adolescent mental health screenings are being implemented in schools and during primary care visits as part of bottom-up strategies to meet women where they are.

However, while women are better represented in clinical trials now than ever before, there are still significant inclusion gaps for certain populations like women of colour and those who are pregnant. Ignoring the health needs of women and not creating solutions that meet them where they are could risk the health and well-being of the nation, according to Singh.

Dr. Clark states that rapid advancements in technology and policies and programs that impact the health of women are exciting for their team. They are advocating for improved women's healthcare and have been featured in a Becker's Hospital Review article alongside Dr. Sherry Ross and Betsy Golson, leaders of the website.

Community-based health programs at local churches or senior centres are also being used as part of bottom-up strategies to improve health outcomes for women. These programs provide a familiar and comfortable environment for women, making it easier for them to access essential health services.

In conclusion, the article underscores the importance of bottom-up strategies, technology-driven approaches, and community partnerships in improving health outcomes for women. By addressing the unique challenges and disparities that women face in areas such as adolescent mental health, maternal health, and certain chronic diseases, we can strive to create a healthier and more equitable future for all women.