Consequences of the Absence of Women in the Health System

The presence of women in the health system and the field of healthcare plays a fundamental and essential role in providing diverse, effective, and comprehensive services to society and its citizens. Women, as half of the population in every society, can contribute significantly to all sectors and influence the development and progress of their country. However, in many societies, especially in developing countries, women face numerous obstacles when entering this field. The absence of women in various health and medical sectors has widespread consequences for the quality of healthcare services, public health, and social development.

Recently, the education and training of women in health-related educational institutions, which were among the few opportunities available to them, have also faced restrictions. As a result, it is easy to predict that in the near future, the country’s healthcare system will lack female doctors and nurses. Considering that even during the past 20 years, when there were significant opportunities to train female healthcare professionals, a shortage of women in this field was still acutely felt in many areas, a painful disaster seems inevitable.

This article briefly explores the consequences of the absence of women in the healthcare and medical system.

Impact on Women’s Health

One of the most significant consequences of the absence of women in the health system is its negative impact on women’s health. Due to cultural, social, or religious reasons, many women prefer or are compelled to seek healthcare services from female doctors. The lack of female doctors may cause women to feel uncomfortable seeking medical care or avoid healthcare services altogether. This can result in delayed diagnosis and treatment of diseases, particularly in areas such as reproductive health and gynecological issues, potentially leading to severe outcomes, including death due to lack of treatment.

Increased Inequality in Access to Healthcare Services

The absence of women in the health system creates inequality in access to healthcare services. In many societies, particularly in rural and remote areas, the lack of female doctors and medical staff limits access to healthcare for women and children. This inequality means that women often cannot access high-quality healthcare services and may even be deprived of essential medical care in some cases.

Decline in the Quality of Healthcare Services

The presence of women in the health system enhances diversity in perspectives and approaches, which improves the quality of healthcare services. Conversely, their absence may lead to insufficient attention to the specific needs of women and children in healthcare delivery. This lack of focus negatively impacts patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes.

Erosion of Public Trust in the Health System

The absence of women in healthcare may reduce public trust in the system. In societies where women constitute a significant portion of the population, the lack of female representation in healthcare can create a perception that the system is incapable of addressing the diverse needs of all individuals. This issue is particularly crucial in sensitive areas such as reproductive health and psychological counseling.

Limited Employment and Professional Opportunities for Women

The absence of women in the medical field not only harms society as a whole but also limits women’s employment and professional opportunities. This restriction undermines women’s economic and social independence and exacerbates gender inequalities. Additionally, limiting job opportunities for women can reduce household incomes and contribute to the spread of poverty.

Negative Impact on Children’s Health

Women play a critical role in improving children’s health in the healthcare sector. Mothers often prefer female doctors for their children, especially in cases requiring detailed consultations about physical or psychological well-being. The absence of female doctors can negatively affect children’s health and reduce the quality of healthcare services available to them.

Impact on Psychological and Social Issues

Women are often prominent in providing psychological services and social counseling. Their absence in this area can reduce the quality of psychological support and social services, particularly for women who, due to cultural or social factors, may be reluctant to consult male counselors. This issue may lead to increased psychological and social problems in society.

Higher Maternal and Infant Mortality Rates

One of the severe consequences of the absence of women in the health system is the increase in maternal and infant mortality rates. In many societies, women require prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care, typically provided by female doctors and nurses. The absence of these professionals can heighten risks during pregnancy and childbirth.

Therefore, the absence of women in the healthcare and medical system not only harms public health but also exacerbates gender inequalities and reduces the quality of healthcare services. To mitigate these consequences, precise policymaking, extensive training programs, and supportive measures are necessary to enable women to play effective roles in this field and contribute to the overall health and well-being of society.