Focusing on gender justice in health systems is extremely important in order to ensure that all members of society, regardless of their gender, have access to the same quality of healthcare, and to ensure that nobody is discriminated against in regard to medical care. Women are often underrepresented in many areas of the health sector, such as clinical research, medical education, and health policy decision-making. This is due to several factors, including discriminatory social norms, cultural expectations, and unequal access to education and training opportunities. Women are typically paid less, receive fewer promotions, and are given fewer job opportunities than men.
Power dynamics and gender inequality have been found to have a negative influence on the health systems of many countries. Inequalities between men, women and gender-diverse persons influence access to health services, health outcomes, and overall quality of health care. Women and gender-diverse persons often experience an unequal burden due to unequal access to resources, unequal power dynamics in decision-making processes, and unequal access to decision-making positions. In countries with weak institutional structures, gender inequality can lead to exploitative practices and corruption. This can further hinder women’s access to quality health care, as well as their ability to participate in decision-making processes.
Investment in gender-sensitive policies must be prioritised at all levels of participation, with a focus on increasing women’s access to decision-making positions and health services. Additionally, strategies to strengthen institutional structures against gender-based violence, as well as other patriarchal norms that lead to health inequities, are also needed. Lastly, partnerships between governments, non-governmental organisations, the private sector, and the community are necessary to ensure that health systems are equitable and inclusive
We recognise that the health and well-being of individuals in communities are dependent on the physical, social, environmental, and economic factors present in these communities; cognisant that some communities are under-resourced and under-represented, and health inequities are evident. These communities have historically been silenced, ignored, and their trust violated with regard to economic and educational opportunities, environmental safety, access to health care, quality healthcare service delivery, education, and their overall ability to thrive.
Addressing gender inequality in health systems can help to promote health equity and reduce health disparities based on gender, while also promoting the health, safety, and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Finally, ensuring gender justice in health systems helps to create a more inclusive, just, and equitable society.