In an increasingly complex healthcare landscape, women often find themselves navigating a system that wasn’t always designed with their best interests at heart. From historical gender biases in medical research to the ongoing struggle for equitable care, the path to optimal health can be fraught with challenges.
But there’s a powerful tool every woman possesses: her own voice. Becoming a confident, informed and proactive health advocate is not just a good idea; it’s a necessity in claiming the care you rightfully deserve.
THE REALITY OF WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE TODAY
A 2022 Kaiser Family Foundation survey revealed that 29% of women reported having their concerns dismissed by doctors, and 15% felt that healthcare professionals did not believe they were telling the truth. For Black women, the statistics are even more alarming. The same study found that “about one in five (21%) Black women say they have been treated unfairly by a health care provider or their staff because of their racial or ethnic background.”
The unfortunate truth is that women, and particularly women of color, continue to face significant disparities in healthcare. These experiences are not just frustrating; they can have serious health consequences.
From an interview on Ochsner’s website with Dr. Elizabeth Lapeyre regarding women’s wellness, she advises women to:
- Seek and secure support.
- Get the right people on your team.
- Set goals for what you want to change.
- Get the right information.
YOUR PRIMARY CARE PHYSICIAN: THE DIRECTOR OF YOUR HEALTH TEAM
Your journey to becoming a powerful health advocate begins by having a strong relationship with your primary care physician. Think of your PCP as the central hub of your healthcare, the one who sees the whole picture. A good PCP not only will address your immediate health concerns but also help you navigate the system, refer you to and help you coordinate with specialists and advocate for your needs. Look for a healthcare provider who listens to you, respects your input and encourages your active participation in your healthcare.
When you need a specialist, your PCP is your most valuable ally. He or she can provide referrals to trusted colleagues and ensure a seamless transfer of your medical information, preventing the fragmentation of care that can lead to errors and oversights. And don’t forget, there is power in getting a second opinion; it is a sign of an empowered patient.
A PRESCRIPTION FOR A HEALTHIER FUTURE
By embracing your role as your own health advocate, you are not just improving your own wellbeing; you are contributing to a larger movement for more equitable and patient-centered care. Your voice has the power to create change — not only for yourself, but for all women. So, take charge of your health, ask the tough questions and demand the care you deserve. Your health is your most precious asset; it’s time to start treating it that way.