Women's Health Policy in the United States: An American College of Physicians Position Paper

Abstract

In this position paper, the American College of Physicians (ACP) examines the challenges women face in the U.S. health care system across their lifespans, including access to care; sex- and gender-specific health issues; variation in health outcomes compared with men; underrepresentation in research studies; and public policies that affect women, their families, and society. ACP puts forward several recommendations focused on policies that will improve the health outcomes of women and ensure a health care system that supports the needs of women and their families over the course of their lifespans.

Maternal Mortality among African American Women in the State of Georgia, Causes, Policy, and Ethical Considerations

“…In addition, maternal care needs to be performed by health professionals and skilled individuals such as educated midwives. The outcomes of such policies and intervention programs may improve maternal care nationwide particularly among low social income groups including African American women (Daniel et al, 2018). Maternal mortality can also be reduced through effective maternal screening, health promotion, health behavior changes and effective case management underpinned by the rights approach that emphasizes respect for human dignity.…”

Does Sex Bias Play a Role for Dissatisfied Patients With Hypothyroidism?

“…Sex bias has been shown to affect a broad spectrum of diseases [ 7 ]. Thus, the evidence that women are more dissatisfied with their hypothyroidism treatments than are men [ 6 ] supports the logical hypothesis that sex bias plays a role in hypothyroidism.…”

“…Thus, the evidence that women are more dissatisfied with their hypothyroidism treatments than are men [ 6 ] supports the logical hypothesis that sex bias plays a role in hypothyroidism. Studies to specifically investigate the impact of potential bias against women with hypothyroidism are justified; pursuit of such research would be in accordance with recent recommendations from the American College of Physicians [ 7 ]. Clinical investigators should report sex-specific data ( e.g.…”

“…Clinical investigators should report sex-specific data ( e.g. , subgroup analyses for treatment satisfaction), address sex-specific differences in disease treatments, and include women participants of diverse races or ethnicities [ 7 ]. Only when we clearly define the problem can we develop and apply solutions.…”

Multispecialty Resident Perspectives on Parental Leave Policies

“…The United States is the only industrialized nation without guaranteed paid parental leave for employees. 1 Additionally, there is no federal law guaranteeing comprehensive workplace accommodations for pregnant employees. In the midst of shifting societal and generational norms regarding work-life integration and parental roles, increasing attention has been given to developing national policies that protect pregnant employees on the job and encourage employees of all genders to be at home with new children.…”