Fixing the System: Reducing Women’s Reproductive Inequalities
The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Sexual and Reproductive Health (APPG on SRH) has released a report addressing urgent issues in women’s reproductive healthcare across the UK, highlighting a postcode lottery in access to services.
The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Sexual and Reproductive Health (APPG on SRH) has released a report highlighting urgent issues related to women’s reproductive healthcare across the UK. The report explores how the system’s design and delivery results in a postcode lottery of essential health services across England and outlines a roadmap for solutions.
Rebecca Curtayne, External Affairs Manager at Healthwatch provided oral evidence to the APPG’s inquiry based on insights gathered by the Healthwatch network.
Healthwatch evidence referenced in the report includes the need for better access to GPs for women when they first seek help and for closer NHS working with trusted patient, community and faith groups to help inform, build trust and design services that women can easily visit and that fit around their busy lives and any caring responsibilities.
The report makes 13 national recommendations, including:
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Free and accessible emergency contraception for all women (as some pharmacies charge for this if there isn't a local NHS scheme to cover costs)
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Action to tackle long gynaecology waiting lists
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Collection of more evidence from marginalised women about their experiences
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Ongoing commitment to women's health hubs.
Women's Health in Redbridge
Healthwatch Redbridge recently contributed to a national report on women's experiences accessing cervical screenings and has gone on to develop an extended Women's Health Project.
