Sarah Graham - How to get doctors to listen when you’re being ‘hysterical’ (5 January 2023)

Summary

This blog for Refinery 29 by journalist Sarah Graham examines the gender health gap, a term used to describe the inequalities in treatment and health outcomes that men and women experience. She talks about the stories relating to sexism and institutional bias she has come across during her time as a health journalist, that result in poor care experiences and outcomes for women. While acknowledging that women should not have to make extra effort to be heard by the health system, Sarah offers tips for women to help them voice their concerns and improve their chances of being listened to by medical professionals.

Content

Sarah's tips for women when speaking to medical professionals

• Know your body and come prepared
• Equip yourself with evidence and knowledge
• Rule out the worst-case scenarios
• Bring back-up
• Treat it like a collaboration
• Try to understand the challenges your doctor faces