Maritime Women Demand Better Health Care: IWK Foundation Survey

A recent survey conducted by the IWK Foundation reveals that women in the Maritime provinces are dissatisfied with the current health-care system, which they feel fails to address their specific needs. Over 27,000 women from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island participated in the survey, making it the largest of its kind focused on women’s health in the region.

The survey, conducted in July 2023, highlighted several critical issues impacting women’s health. Many respondents reported that their responsibilities at home and work prevent them from seeking medical care. Moreover, a significant number of women expressed concerns that their health issues would not be taken seriously by health-care providers.

According to the findings, 70 percent of participants believe that the existing health-care system does not meet their needs. Additionally, 86 percent indicated a strong desire for substantial changes to improve women’s health care. “This is not just data; it’s the lived realities of more than 27,000 Maritime women,” stated Jennifer Gillivan, president and CEO of the IWK Foundation, in a news release.

Insights Into Women’s Health Concerns

The report, titled “The Voice of Maritime Women — The Unspoken Burden of Women’s Health,” reveals that the most pressing health concerns are not acute illnesses but rather “invisible” issues such as stress, anxiety, and sleep disruption. Many respondents also cited hormonal imbalances and the emotional toll of caregiving as significant challenges.

Social pressures, financial constraints, and gaps in health knowledge were identified as barriers to achieving better health. Gillivan emphasized the importance of acknowledging these challenges, stating, “Women aren’t asking for more resilience; they’re already showing that every day. They are not just asking for better care; they are demanding a new approach.”

The survey identified the top priorities that Maritime women want to see addressed in health care. Gillivan described the findings as a roadmap for action, urging stakeholders to value women’s experiences and focus on preventive care.

A Call for Systemic Change

When asked what changes would most improve health outcomes in the Maritimes, respondents provided various suggestions, reflecting a strong call for reform. The IWK Foundation aims to advocate for specialized services that cater to women at every stage of life, emphasizing the need for gender-informed research and education.

The IWK Foundation serves as the principal fundraising organization for the IWK Health Centre, a facility dedicated to women and children in Halifax. As the foundation moves forward, it seeks to engage policymakers and health professionals in discussions around necessary improvements for women’s health care in the region.

Addressing the concerns raised in this survey will require collaboration among health-care providers, policymakers, and community organizations. The voices of Maritime women must not be overlooked, and the urgent need for change is clear. The IWK Foundation is committed to acting on these findings to foster an environment where women’s health is prioritized and adequately supported.