News

At the heart of our healthcare system lies a persistent, hidden issue: gender bias. Women’s Health Victoria (WHV) is driving systemic change to ensure women, particularly those further disadvantaged by poverty, cultural background and rural status, receive equitable healthcare. At MWF’s June 5th event, titled Advancing Women’s Health: Changing the system to be more equitable and accessible—generously hosted by Hall and Wilcox—WHV CEO Sally Hasler highlighted the challenges – and opportunities – to an engaged group of MWF’s community.

WHV works alongside government, community, and health sectors, offering support services, evidence-based advocacy, and capacity-building within healthcare systems. 

Sally highlighted numerous examples of gender bias in healthcare. Women have long been underrepresented in medical research and there is continuing inadequate investment in female specific health conditions. In Victoria, women in rural areas lack ready access to abortion services. Women are less likely to receive CPR or defibrillation through fears of exposing the patient’s breasts. An app diagnosed a heart attack in a man, but a panic attack in a woman. 

Women are over-diagnosed with stigmatized conditions such as Borderline Personality Disorder, whilst underdiagnosed with conditions such as PTSD or ADHD. Women experience barriers to accessing Mental Health services due to costs, transport, caring responsibilities, shame, fear.  

Encouragingly, change is on the horizon. WHV’s Labia Library, 1800 My Options, and peer-support initiatives connect women with vital knowledge and services. The Victorian Government’s world first enquiry into women’s pain heard of the lived experience of 13,000 women. Results due out soon could catalyze lasting reform toward gender-responsive care. 

Philanthropy plays a critical role—while government holds primary responsibility, bold ideas need funding to be realized. As WHV continues championing gender equity, Sally’s words challenged us to consider the ways in which we may all contribute to change. 

Sally’s presentation was engaging, stimulating and eye-opening. Her keynote was almost eclipsed by the opening remarks of Emma Woolley, Partner at Hall and Wilcox by day, surely comedian by night. How did she make the subject of Estate Planning intriguing, compelling and funny all at once! She truly convinced us of the value of planning our legacy to prevent unnecessary further suffering for our loved ones. Thanks Emma for enlightening us. Thanks to all who attended. The learning was palpable.