At the Health Collab, we believe that access to basic healthcare is a fundamental human right. However, many women, especially in developing regions like Pakistan, struggle to attain this right. The challenges women encounter in accessing healthcare services are intricate and varied, stemming from deeply ingrained cultural, social, and economic obstacles. This is further exacerbated by a lack of free women’s health clinics. Healthcare barriers not only hinder women from receiving necessary care but also significantly impact the welfare of their families and communities.
Cultural and Social Barriers
In many parts of the world, including Pakistan, cultural norms and societal expectations significantly impact women’s ability to access medical care. Traditional gender roles often require women to prioritise their family’s health over their own, resulting in delays in seeking treatment for their health issues. In some communities, it is deemed unacceptable for women to go to healthcare facilities without a male escort, which further restricts their access to timely care.
Economic Challenges
Economic barriers pose a significant challenge for women in Pakistan when it comes to accessing healthcare. The country’s financial instability and widespread poverty mean many women cannot afford medical care. This problem is worsened by the fact that women are often financially dependent on their male relatives, who may not prioritise spending on women’s health services.
The cost of transportation to healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas where services are scarce, further complicates the situation. For many women, the nearest healthcare facility may be several kilometres away, requiring expensive and often unreliable transportation. The choice between spending limited resources on healthcare or other essentials like food and education is a daily reality for many families, and unfortunately, women’s health is frequently deprioritised.
Lack of Female Healthcare Providers
The availability of female healthcare providers is crucial in societies where cultural norms may prevent women from seeking care from male doctors. However, Pakistan is experiencing a significant shortage of female doctors, especially in rural areas. This shortage worsens the barriers women face, as many are uncomfortable or unwilling to seek care from male practitioners. The lack of female healthcare workers not only restricts access to care but also undermines the quality of care women receive.
The Role of The Health Collab
In the midst of these challenges, organisations like The Health Collab play a crucial role in bridging the gap in healthcare access for women. By maintaining Basic Health Units in regions like Faisalabad, The Health Collab ensures that women can access essential healthcare services, including those provided by female healthcare professionals. These units offer a range of services, from basic first aid to medical screenings and referrals, helping to address the immediate health needs of women in the community.
The obstacles that women encounter in accessing healthcare are strongly influenced by cultural, social, and economic factors. In countries like Pakistan, these challenges are especially significant. However, The Health Collab is striving to make progress in this area by confronting these obstacles and offering essential healthcare services.
Image Source: https://images.pexels.com/photos/4586993/pexels-photo-4586993.jpeg
