Defining and Understanding the Importance of Women’s Healthcare
One question that those working in the women’s healthcare industry are often asked is why a separate field for women’s healthcare is necessary. Many seem to feel that the entire concept is far too niche and that there doesn’t need to be a separate field for our unique health concerns. Recently, however, these conversations have been happening less often as investors have begun to realize the importance of this field of medicine.
What Is Women’s Healthcare?
Broadly speaking, one could define it as “that branch of medical science focusing on the treatment and diagnosis of health concerns impacting the emotional and physical well-being of women.” However, this only scratches the surface of what this field of medicine covers. It is a dedicated discipline where providers strive to meet women’s health care needs by bringing professional skills and a compassionate presence to every visit.
Women as Key Healthcare Decision Makers
Women are the major consumers of healthcare services in the United States and are 76% more likely to have visited a doctor than our male counterparts in a given year. Even when we aren’t personally consuming healthcare services, we are responsible for 80% of the decisions regarding healthcare services for our families. This includes appointments for our family members and picking up prescriptions from the drugstore. In most families, we fill the role of Chief Medical Officer.
Viewing Healthcare Beyond Reproductive Health
One major struggle facing women’s health has been a myopic focus on reproductive and gynecological health. Most women experience reproductive health concerns that most men do not, such as menopause, pregnancy, and menstruation. However, this cannot serve the entire scope of women’s health. According to medical data, women are also more likely to:
- Become disabled through the course of their lives;
- Develop heart disease 20% more often;
- Become obese more frequently;
- Die within 5 years of their first heart attack.
Growth in the Digital Health Sector
This is due, in part, to a growing understanding of what women’s healthcare is and its importance. From 2020 to 2021 alone, US Digital Health Startups focusing on women’s health saw investment dollars double from $700 million to $1.4 billion over 23 deals. This shift ensures the future is mostly looking positive for meeting the needs of all kinds of women with respect and care.
Comprehensive Services and Specialties
Modern practices provide comprehensive OB/GYN care for a woman’s reproductive health, from puberty to menopause. A wide range of science and evidence based medical care services includes:
- Obstetrics and Midwifery: Including waterbirth and maternity education.
- Gynecology and Wellness: Addressing endometriosis, menstrual disorders, and birth control.
- Advanced Diagnostics: Ultrasound, mammography, and hysteroscopy.
- Specialized Care: Oncology and other essential health services.
You deserve a health care provider who inspires confidence and respects you as a partner in your own care. If you’re eager to discover more about the state of women’s health care today and what the future holds, reach out to your provider today to stay updated on the latest information.