Why do women not get the care they need?

Many factors contribute to women not receiving the care they need. Some of these include:

Lack of access: Women may not have access to healthcare facilities or services, especially in rural or low-income areas. This can make it difficult for them to receive the care they need, including preventative services like mammograms and pap smears.

Financial barriers: The cost of healthcare can be a significant barrier for many women, especially those without insurance. Even with insurance, deductibles, and copays can be unaffordable for some.

Stigma and discrimination: Women may avoid seeking care due to stigma or discrimination related to their gender, sexual orientation, or other factors. For example, transgender women may face discrimination when seeking reproductive healthcare.

Lack of knowledge: Women may not be aware of the healthcare services available to them or the importance of preventative care.

Provider biases: Providers may have biases or stereotypes about women that affect the care they provide. For example, women may be less likely to be prescribed pain medication due to biases around their ability to tolerate pain.

Addressing these and other factors can help ensure that women receive the care they need to maintain their health and well-being.