Dr Michelle O'Driscoll: New initiatives to improve women's health

In recent years, the disparities in healthcare between men and women have become increasingly evident, and thankfully, they are beginning to be recognised at government level. The importance of this cannot be understated.

Whilst women need the same level of care as men in relation to their health, the type of care must be tailored to their specific needs.

Hormonal and reproductive health, for example, demands more extensive knowledge, facilities, and services, as does a focus on heart and bone health.

An action plan launched by the government three years ago has been the driver for these improvements, and this has been backed by significant funding to see it realised.

Inequalities in healthcare service and access are evident in Ireland, but also at EU and international levels. Poorer health outcomes across a range of conditions need to be addressed, having emerged from decades of male-focused research and investment into medicines and treatments. Reversing this inequality will not happen overnight. It is vital that we women so they can enjoy improved quality of life and health in their later years.

Key initiatives underway

• Free Contraception Scheme for women from the age of 17, with the age range continuing to expand, currently covering up to and including the age of 35.
• Specialist Menopause Clinics (six established), five Endometriosis Hubs, and two developing Supra-Regional Centres for complex endometriosis care.
• An action plan to eliminate cervical cancer in Ireland by 2040 – ed by vaccination and education.
• Gynaecology and maternity services have also developed significantly, including ‘See-and-Treat’ Ambulatory Gynaecology Clinics, Community-based Postnatal Hubs and Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services.
• The government’s focus on women’s health is guided this year by the Programme for Government and Phase 2 of the Women’s Health Action Plan 2024–25. Priorities are following a life cycle approach, addressing the different needs of women at various stages of life.

and ongoing improvements

• Mental health services tailored to gender: As with physical health, equality in mental health must not mean uniformity. Gender affects mental health needs and appropriate services. New initiatives include eating disorder teams, improved postnatal mental health care, and progress on Ireland’s first mother-and-baby inpatient mental health unit, allowing recovery without separation.
• Heart and bone health focus: Funding is now directed at prevention and early intervention for mid-life and older women in these key areas to avoid the significant health impacts that the absence of such services can have for women.
• Free HRT for women: Although delayed due to istrative issues, roll-out is now expected in June, ed by the Irish Pharmacy Union.
• ed reproduction: The first-ever public Assisted Human Reproduction Treatment Centre is due to open by year’s end, increasing accessibility.
• Period dignity programmes: Free period products are being made available in public buildings through local authorities, family resource centres, and community partners. This scheme is essential and is expected to expand further.
• Increased breastfeeding s: Lack of early information and guidance can affect both feeding outcomes and maternal confidence. More trained staff in maternity hospitals will informed and individual decisions.
• Expansion of ‘See-and-Treat’ Gynaecology Clinics: These clinics are essential for improving the speed and quality of care for women suffering long-term from gynaecological conditions.

Addressing the gaps

Despite these well-intentioned efforts, we don’t know what we don’t know - and the voice of women in Ireland is vital in continuing to identify gaps in healthcare and seeking action to address them.

Whilst it’s usually not the fault of any one healthcare professional, systemic failures need to be communicated when they occur.

Being vocal about your experiences in accessing care, and advocating for yourself or loved ones when needs are not being met, is incredibly important. If you don’t feel able to do this while unwell, you’re always entitled to re-engage with the services afterwards.

Sometimes, opportunities arise to take part in research projects related to a service or experience, which can be a powerful way to influence change.

In your own healthcare journey, it’s always important to recognise and understand the need for gender-specific healthcare, and to advocate for it where it’s missing.

Doing so can help women to live longer, healthier lives.