Celebrating women in healthcare

Women play a critical role in the field of healthcare, with their contributions being nothing short of invaluable.

As we mark International Women’s Day (Saturday, March 8), it is important to recognise the significant impact that women have had on the health and wellbeing of people around the world. According to a report by the World Health Organisation, women account for an impressive 67 per cent of the global health and social care workforce.

This means that women provide essential health services for around five billion people worldwide. The report also revealed that 53 per cent of senior healthcare roles are occupied by women, which is 18 per cent higher than all other sectors. This demonstrates the pivotal role that women play in leadership positions within the healthcare industry. In addition, women have been driving much of the growth in the healthcare field.

Since the turn of the century, women have been responsible for 80 per cent of the overall growth in this booming sector. Their dedication, expertise, and commitment to improving the health outcomes of individuals and communities have been truly remarkable. Furthermore, women have made significant strides in pursuing higher education in healthcare-related occupations.

Over the years, there has been a notable increase in the number of women entering professions such as dentistry, optometry, pharmacy, medicine, and veterinary medicine. In fact, women now make up the majority of veterinarians and pharmacists and have more than doubled their representation in other occupations such as dentistry and optometry.

One of the largest healthcare occupations is that of registered nurses, with more than 2.4 million workers. Women make up more than 85 per cent of workers in this field, highlighting their substantial contribution to this critical aspect of healthcare. Additionally, nursing, psychiatric, and home health aides employ more than 1.2 million individuals, with a majority of them being women.

Although there are still challenges to overcome, women have made significant progress in traditionally male-dominated professions within the healthcare sector. For instance, there are around 763,000 doctors and surgeons working full-time, year-round, and a third of them are women.

Women have also been instrumental in shaping healthcare policies, conducting groundbreaking research, and championing public health initiatives. Their expertise and leadership have been critical in advancing healthcare systems and improving health outcomes for individuals and communities.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it is essential to acknowledge and honour the significant contributions of women in the field of healthcare.

Women have made remarkable progress in the healthcare industry, and their impact continues to be felt in various aspects of healthcare delivery. Their representation in leadership roles, their pursuit of higher education in healthcare-related professions, and their invaluable contributions to the provision of essential health services are just a few examples of the vital role that women play in healthcare.

Here at Docklands Health, we are no different, with our team being made up of 81 per cent women, a trait we are proud of, and feel enhances the care we provide to our local community. Please join me in thanking your local health icons on this International Women’s Day. •