Asserting Women's Health Rights: Obstacles Encountered and Strategies for Being Heard Effectively
In the realm of healthcare, the role of treating or attending physicians, also known as Vertragsärzt*innen, is paramount. These specialists support patients in self-advocacy, ensuring equal treatment for insured patients and fostering patient involvement in their care decisions.
However, a 2022 survey revealed concerning trends. A significant number of women reported experiencing dismissal of their concerns (29%), disbelief from healthcare professionals (15%), blame (13%), and assumptions being made without consultation (19%). These findings underscore the need for women to empower themselves in their healthcare journey.
Self-advocacy can take various forms. Learning about one's condition can instil confidence, enabling women to ask questions and participate in decisions about their health. Preparing questions and information in advance can prevent healthcare professionals from rushing or dismissing concerns during an appointment.
Detailed records of medical history can also improve communication with healthcare professionals, empowering individuals to participate in healthcare decisions. These records can provide a comprehensive overview of a patient's health journey, facilitating informed discussions with doctors.
Seeking a second opinion is a patient's right, and it can be beneficial for various reasons, such as uncertainty, confirmation, alternative treatments, or finding a more receptive and understanding healthcare professional. Society's view of doctors as ultimate authorities has often been challenged by clinical evidence and the lived experiences of many women.
Unfortunately, gender bias in healthcare can result in women receiving lower quality care than men. This bias can manifest in various ways, such as downplaying symptoms of heart attacks in women, leading to higher rates of death among women. Women from marginalized groups, disabled women, and women from the LGBTQIA community may face additional barriers to equitable healthcare.
Asking a friend or family member to accompany an appointment can provide support and help the individual feel less overwhelmed. Finding a specialist who will listen to women's concerns and include them in care decisions may help women self-advocate for equitable healthcare.
The right to ask questions about health and treatments is a patient's right, and individuals should not be afraid to ask for further clarification if needed. Self-advocacy can help individuals receive more satisfactory healthcare in a system that can feel overwhelming and inequitable.
In conclusion, self-advocacy is a crucial tool for women navigating the healthcare system. By learning about their conditions, preparing questions, seeking second opinions, and finding supportive healthcare professionals, women can advocate for their health and wellbeing, striving for equitable and high-quality care.
