In recognition of Women's Health Month, it’s vital to acknowledge—and ultimately, work to dismantle—gender inequities or disparities in healthcare. Conventional medicine often overlooks women's specific wellness needs, which can cause misdiagnoses, insufficient treatments, and poor chronic health outcomes. It's essential to recognize these disparities, so that women can advocate for their well-being and receive the personalized care they deserve. 

One example of gender-based medical oversight is endometriosis, a chronic and often debilitating condition that impacts nearly one in 10 women. This illness frequently causes severe pain and infertility, but despite how common and serious endometriosis can be, it is continually under-researched. Historically, women were not even able to take part in clinical trials.  

It wasn't until the early 1990s that the FDA allowed reproductive-age women to volunteer for clinical research studies. However, women still represent only about one-third of participants in cardiovascular research,  although heart disease affects men and women equally. 

This bias affects healthcare delivery as well. Numerous studies show that emergency room doctors are more likely to misdiagnose strokes in women, compared to men. Women face about a one-third higher risk of receiving an incorrect diagnosis, and they experience seven times more risk of premature medical discharge after a misdiagnosed heart attack. This is often due to women's symptoms being viewed as “atypical,” combined with the harmful misconception that heart disease primarily affects men. 

Women's reports of pain are often treated with minimization or outright dismissal, too. This troubling practice stems from historical assumptions of “female hysteria.” As a result, women often receive inadequate access to pain management interventions. Research shows that women are 25 percent less likely than men to receive pain medication in a timely manner. While psychosomatic illness is a valid concern, the majority of women’s reported symptoms are genuine, and therefore, require legitimate care. 

Resolving these disparities starts with awareness, education, and self-advocacy. It’s crucial for women—especially those facing chronic or complex health issues—to seek out medical practitioners who are attuned to unique gender-specific health differences. Educating oneself about these issues can improve wellness outcomes, enabling women to secure the attentive and equitable healthcare they deserve. 

Dr. Fred Harvey is quadruple board-certified in Internal Medicine, Geriatric Medicine, Functional Medicine, and Holistic-Integrative Medicine. He is also the host of Tampa Bay’s top-rated health program, “The Healthy Steps Radio Show,” airing live each Monday at 10 a.m., on 88.5 WMNF. On this show, he explores critical health issues, answers listener questions, and offers valuable insights for optimal health and wellness. Call in live with your questions at 813-239-9663, text 813-433-0885, or email [email protected]. Dr. Harvey’s practice, Functional Medicine Florida, is currently accepting new patients as well. For more information, call 941-929-9355 or visit https://functionalmedicineflorida.com/