And Still She Rises: Policies for Improving Women's Health for a More Equitable Post-Pandemic World

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Women's Health
• Public Policy

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing crises, including violence, hunger, and impoverishment, disproportionately affecting women globally.
• Maternal and Infant Health Canada (MIHCan) initiated a policy action study to identify pandemic-driven changes that could improve global women's health.
• The study aimed to inform strategies for a more equitable post-pandemic world.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how pandemic-induced changes can catalyze improvements in global women's health.
• To develop policy recommendations for employers, governments, and health authorities.
• To leverage digital technology for enhanced healthcare access and wellbeing.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining surveys and focus groups.
• 280 women's health experts responded to a survey.
• 65 experts participated in subsequent focus groups across India, Egypt/Sudan, Canada, and the United States/Mexico.

Main Results:

• Key recommendations include augmenting mental health support through open dialogue.
• Valuing and compensating frontline workers with living wages, paid sick leave, and enhanced benefits is crucial.
• Expanding digital technology for flexible work, telemedicine, and telecounseling can improve caregiver wellbeing and access to care.

Conclusions:

• Bridging the digital divide through affordable internet and digital literacy training is essential.
• Policy recommendations aim to improve mental and physical wellbeing and working conditions for women.
• Implementing these changes can lead to lasting improvements in global women's health despite pandemic devastation.