Women's Health Week a reminder for women to put their health first

Medicare Benefits Schedule data reveals a decrease of nearly 24 per cent in the number of female face-to-face GP attendances from March to June 2020, compared with the same period last year.

For the most common GP item number, 23, a consultation lasting less than 20 minutes, the decrease in female attendances was more than 26 per cent.

However, telehealth services have been made available to keep people safe during the pandemic — particularly those more vulnerable to COVID-19 — which aren't included in this data.

RACGP spokesperson Dr Lara Roeske urged women to use the week as a reminder to put their health first.

“We know that women can tend to put the needs of their loved ones before themselves — on top of that, many have faced additional stress, anxiety and financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.

“My message to women across Australia is this: even in the most difficult times, it’s important to take care of your own health and wellbeing.

“GPs have been very concerned to see the drop-off in patients during the pandemic — the problem is widespread; we’re seeing it across all genders and cultural backgrounds and it has serious implications,” she said.

The theme for this year’s Women’s Health Week is health checks, to raise awareness for their importance in disease prevention and overall health and wellbeing.

“The last thing we want is patients delaying important medical care and health problems becoming worse,” Dr Roeske said.

“When it comes to women’s health, there are particular concerns. Pregnant women, for instance, need regular health checks, which are essential to keep up to ensure the health and wellbeing of both mother and child.”

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