Bold plans to improve health and reduce inequalities for women in Scotland have been published recently by the Scottish Government.

Scotland is the first country in the UK to have a Women’s Health Plan, which outlines ambitious improvement and change in areas including menopause, heart health, menstrual health including endometriosis, and sexual health.

The Women’s Health Plan sets out 66 actions to ensure all women enjoy the best possible healthcare throughout their lives. It takes on board the real life experiences of women who have given their feedback on what is important to them.

Key actions include:

  • appointing a national Women’s Health Champion and a Women’s Health Lead in every NHS board
  • establishing a Women’s Health Research Fund to close gaps in scientific and medical knowledge
  • providing a central platform for women’s health information on NHS Inform
  • setting up a Women’s Health Community Pharmacy service
  • commissioning endometriosis research to develop better treatment and management, and a cure
  • developing a menopause and menstrual health workplace policy, and promoting it across the public, private and Third Sector
  • improving information and public awareness of heart disease symptoms and risks for women

Christina McKelvie, MSP for Hamilton Larkhall and Stonehouse said:

"This is very welcoming news for women across Scotland, which many women in Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse will benefit from. 

“Women’s health is not just a women's issue. When women and girls are supported to lead healthy lives and fulfil their potential, the whole of society benefits.

"We need to work together to address inequalities in all aspects of health that women face."