Experts Praise Ayushman Bharat's Progress in Gender Equity in Healthcare
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Synopsis
On International Women’s Day 2025, experts commend Ayushman Bharat for its significant strides in promoting gender equity in healthcare. With women making up a substantial percentage of beneficiaries, the initiative has made remarkable contributions to women's health screening and empowerment.
Key Takeaways
- Ayushman Bharat is advancing gender equity significantly.
- Women constitute 49% of Ayushman cardholders.
- 14.9 crore women screened for cervical cancer.
- Investment and implementation improvements are needed.
- Empowering future generations is crucial for lasting change.
New Delhi, March 8 (NationPress) The achievements of Ayushman Bharat -- the government’s premier initiative -- in promoting gender equity in healthcare are noteworthy, stated public health experts on International Women’s Day 2025 on Saturday.
International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8. The theme this year is 'For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment'.
"Ayushman Bharat is significantly fostering gender equity in healthcare, with women comprising 49 percent of Ayushman cardholders and 48 percent of hospital admissions," remarked Poonam Muttreja, Executive Director of the Population Foundation of India, during an interview with IANS.
She pointed out that the initiative has led to the screening of 14.9 crore women for cervical cancer and 10 crore for breast cancer across the nation.
"This is impressive," said the public health expert, who also acknowledged the existing challenges. She called for increased investment and enhanced implementation.
"To guarantee that every woman benefits, we require greater funding and improved execution to enhance access, gender-sensitive service delivery, and comprehensive reproductive health support, especially in remote rural and marginalized communities," Muttreja advised IANS.
In the meantime, Dr. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director of Apollo Hospitals, recognized the progress achieved in advancing women’s rights globally since 1995.
She advocated for the removal of systemic obstacles that prevent women and girls from reaching their full potential and creating genuinely equitable and inclusive environments.
"Empowering the coming generation is essential. They are the drivers of sustainable change and must be provided with the rights, resources, and opportunities to lead and shape the future," Reddy emphasized.
The doctor called for targeted investments in projects that support women’s rights and gender equality.
This "will ensure that no girl is left behind."
Reddy also encouraged women leaders to utilize their natural influence and establish a legacy of empowerment and equality for future generations.
