'Medical misogyny' across health system to go under microscope in new National Women's Health Advisory Council

The Albanese Labor Government is establishing a National Women’s Health Advisory Council to address stark differences in the health outcomes for women and girls.

 

From delayed diagnosis, overprescribing, dismissal of pain or other symptoms, there are unique challenges that women and girls face that lead to poorer health outcomes.

 

The National Women’s Health Advisory Council will be chaired by Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care Ged Kearney and it will provide strategic advice to improve Australia’s health system for women and girls.

 

The Council will look at the healthcare offered to women and girls when it comes to menstruation, reproductive healthcare and menopause, as well as medical consent and pain management.

 

It will also consider medical research and health outcomes for women across a range of conditions, like heart disease, autism and cancer care.

 

A key role for the new Council will be to guide how the Government delivers on the National Women’s Health Strategy 2020-2030.

 

The National Women’s Health Advisory Council will comprise some of the nation’s most eminent women’s health experts along with representatives from a mix of peak stakeholder organisations, consumer groups, and medical and professional bodies - including the voice of women with lived experience.

 

The Council members, who will each serve an initial three-year term, will provide advice and recommendations directly to the Government, including annual reports on its progress. The Government may seek advice at any time outside of annual reporting.

 

QUOTES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND AGED CARE GED KEARNEY MP

 

“It is completely unacceptable that a young girl suffers ADHD symptoms without diagnosis for potentially years longer than a boy her age. Or a woman has her crippling pelvic pain repeatedly dismissed, only to find severe endometriosis.”

 

“In Australia no one should fall through the cracks when it comes to safe, high quality and affordable healthcare. It’s happening too often for women and we need to find effective ways to address the problem.”

 

“Women and girls deserve tailored and targeted healthcare that recognises and reflects their experiences and concerns.”