Co-Authored in partnership with Kaitlin Bates, PharmD, Manager, ARHOME Quality Government Programs, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Women sit at the center of the healthcare ecosystem, not only as patients, but as decision-makers and caregivers. Women make approximately 80% of healthcare decisions for their families (Becker’s Hospital Review), a statistic that underscores the importance of ensuring their access to consistent, high-quality preventive care.
Preventive care is a cornerstone of better health outcomes. Yet too many women still fall through the cracks. According to a 2023 Ipsos poll, 45% of American women missed preventive screenings, checkups or vaccines in the past year (Informa TechTarget). Women face various challenges that can make preventive care difficult to prioritize or access – like financial challenges, lack of paid leave, childcare or transportation limitations, limited provider availability in rural and underserved areas health literacy gaps, etc.
These missed opportunities impact not only individual health but systemwide efficiency and long-term spend. When care is delayed or skipped, the consequences can be significant, leading to higher rates of late-stage diagnosis of cancer, uncontrolled chronic conditions and increased emergency room, inpatient utilization, etc. From adolescence through reproductive years to menopause and beyond – women’s health isn’t a single moment in time. It’s a lifecycle investment that evolves with age and stage. By investing in preventive care throughout a woman’s life, we can improve outcomes and reduce downstream costs.
While payers and policy leaders have a role to play, healthcare providers are on the front lines of this change. As some of the most accessible healthcare professionals, pharmacists, in particular, have unique opportunities to drive awareness and action around women’s preventive health. Every patient interaction is a chance to make a difference. As trusted voices in the community, pharmacists can help normalize preventive care and encourage women to take charge of their health.
Together, we can build a proactive, preventive approach to women’s health. We can create lasting impact by focusing on early intervention, continuity of care and education.
