Why Prioritizing Midwest Women’s Health Matters Now More Than Ever
The COVID-19 pandemic has emphasized the importance of healthcare, especially for women’s health. The pandemic has highlighted gaps in healthcare systems that need immediate attention to provide better care for all individuals, especially women. The Midwest is no exception to this. There are several reasons why prioritizing Midwest women’s health matters now more than ever.
1. Lack of Access to Health Care
The Midwest is known for its rural communities, which often lack access to quality healthcare services. Women in these areas face additional barriers, such as a lack of accessibility to women’s health services like gynecology, mammograms, and prenatal care. Women in rural areas also have fewer options for family planning and contraception. This lack of access to healthcare can have severe consequences, especially for women who have chronic illnesses or complex medical needs.
2. Health Disparities in Minorities
Minority women in the Midwest face significant disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. These disparities often stem from structural racism, language barriers, and cultural differences. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted these disparities, with minority women being disproportionately affected by the virus. To address these disparities, it’s important to prioritize diversity and inclusivity in healthcare, so all women can receive the care they need.
3. Mental Health Care
Mental health care is equally important as physical health care, yet it often receives less attention. Women in the Midwest are no exception to this, with many suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. The pandemic has brought to light the need for mental health services, especially for women who are caregivers or essential workers that must manage additional stressors. Prioritizing mental health services can have a significant impact on improving the overall health of women in the Midwest.
4. Maternal Health
The Midwest has some of the highest maternal mortality rates in the United States. This rate is especially high for Black women, who are three times more likely to die during childbirth than white women. The lack of access to healthcare, prejudice and health disparities, and poor maternal health are all contributing factors to this issue. Prioritizing maternal health services, including prenatal care and addressing these disparities, can help address this severe issue.
5. Chronic Illness
Chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer are prevalent in the Midwest. Women with chronic illnesses often require specialized care to manage their conditions, yet they face obstacles to access appropriate healthcare to manage their conditions. Prioritizing chronic illness care can help women in the Midwest receive the support and care they need to manage their conditions effectively.
In conclusion, with the pandemic and increasing health disparities affecting women in the Midwest, prioritizing women’s health has never been more important. Women’s health and their access to care should be at the forefront of healthcare policies and priorities. By focusing on access to healthcare, addressing health disparities, prioritizing maternal health, and chronic illness management, we can promote better health outcomes for women in the Midwest. It’s time to take action and prioritize Midwest women’s health now more than ever.
