Emerging issues in women's health policy: Building on health reform and beyond

There is renewed attention to women's health issues at the global, national, state and community level. This presents a time of tremendous opportunity to strategically plan public/private investments in women's health. The author will provide a strategic scan of new and emerging research and information on women's health in the U.S. and discuss the policy opportunities and challenges given the current political and economic climate. Health reform will be a part of the solution to improve access to coverage for millions of women, but successful implementation will be critical if we are to make major improvements in access to care and meaningful investments in public health, primary care, and prevention. Key implementation challenges that will be discussed include: coverage and affordability, the adequacy of the benefits package including reproductive health, mental health, preventive care, and management of chronic conditions; long-term care and the CLASS Act; and the need for a robust health care safety net. Improved access to health care will be necessary but is insufficient to attain major improvements in health. Investments in women's health research, economic opportunity, education and other efforts will be needed to address many of the profound racial/ethnic, economic, and gender inequities that shape women's health. Looking forward, the author will recommend opportunities to build on what's on the radar screen at the federal and state level and discuss public/private policies that will empower women and provide the systems that serve them with the tools needed to transform women's health and wellness.