Healthcare Everything’s edition, “Egypt’s 10 Best Women in Healthcare for 2023”, is a testament to the unwavering dedication, exceptional expertise, and remarkable leadership displayed by women who are driving transformative change within Egypt’s healthcare landscape.
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Egypt's 10 Best Women in Healthcare For 2023V3 2.pdf
1. evien
ElwahshCommitted to Care:
Leading the Way in
Patient-Centered
Healthcare
Nevien
Elwahsh
Dentist
Hayat Medical
Center
Egypt's
Women
Healthcare
2023
Breaking Barriers
Women Thriving in
Male-Dominated
Medical Specialties
Women as Caregivers
Exploring the Impact
of Gender Roles in
Healthcare
August Issue 01 2023
5. Amidst stethoscopes and compassion, they are leading with
firm dedication.
n a world where progress is often synonymous with
Iinnovation and advancement, it is crucial to
acknowledge the remarkable contributions of
individuals shaping healthcare's future. Healthcare
Everything's edition, "Egypt's 10 Best Women in
Healthcare for 2023", is a testament to the unwavering
dedication, exceptional expertise, and remarkable
leadership displayed by women who are driving
transformative change within Egypt's healthcare landscape.
The healthcare sector, now more than ever, relies on the
expertise of professionals who excel in their fields and
possess a profound sense of empathy and dedication to the
well-being of their patients. The women featured in this
edition represent a diverse spectrum of healthcare
disciplines, from groundbreaking research and clinical
practice to healthcare policy and management. Their stories
are a source of inspiration, underscoring women's pivotal
role in the evolution of healthcare.
These exceptional women have demonstrated the power of
resilience and innovation, navigating through challenges
and pushing the boundaries of medical science. Through
their research, they are uncovering new avenues for
treatment and prevention, reshaping our understanding of
diseases, and enhancing patient care. Their clinical skills
have touched countless lives, offering solace and healing to
those in need. Moreover, their healthcare policy and
management leadership propels Egypt's healthcare system
toward greater efficiency, accessibility and quality.
In celebrating these women, we recognize their individual
achievements and emphasize the broader importance of
gender diversity within the healthcare sector. Their success
paves the way for more opportunities for women, fostering
an environment where talent and dedication are the sole
benchmarks of success.
As we delve into the stories of Egypt's 10 Best Women in
Healthcare for 2023, their journey, vision and impact
inspire us. Through their collective efforts, they are
contributing to a healthier society and a brighter future. We
extend our heartfelt congratulations to these extraordinary
women and express our gratitude for their unwavering
commitment to advancing healthcare in Egypt and
beyond.
Hope you have an inspiring read ahead!
Forging Eminence,
Reshaping Healthcare
Pja Sh
- Pooja Shah
7. Articles
Sara M. El-Faek
From Ba ling Obesity to
Inspiring Wellness
16
Suicidal Ideation
among Youths
in India
24
Women Thriving in Male-Dominated
Medical Special es
20
Breaking Barriers
Exploring the Impact of Gender
Roles in Healthcare
Women as Caregivers
28
CXO
9. Egypt's 10 Best Women in Healthcare For 2023
Description
Featuring
Person
Dina el-Shenoufy
Chief Investment
Officer
Flat6Labs
flat6labs.com
Mairose Doss
Chief Operating Officer
Dawi Clinics
dawiclinics.com
Mariam Youssef
Manager
Maryam Saleh
CPC COORDINATOR
International
Medical Center
imc.med.sa
Nehad Kamel
Sr. Haematologies
Royallab.net.
royal-lab.net
Company
Nevien Elwahsh
Dentist
Omaima Idris
Professor of Obstetrics
and Gynaecology
Prof. Dr. Ghada
Farouk Hassan Saad
Vice President for
Community
& Environmental
Prof. May Hassaballah
Board Member
Sara M. El-Faek
Founder & CEO
Hayat
Medical Center
hayatclinic.co.uk
Rofayda
Health Park
rofayda.org
Ain Shams
University
asu.edu.eg
Arab Contractors
Medical Center
ac-medicalcenter.com
The Alpha Events
thealphaevents.org
Mairose Doss is an Internal Medicine specialist in
Cairo University, and is a member of the
American College of Physicians and the
American College of Healthcare Executives.
Dina Osama El-Shenoufy is the Chief Information
Officer (CIO) of Flat6Labs, a leading startup
accelerator and seed funding organisation in the
Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Mediconsult
mediconsulteg.com
Mariam's role is managing and performing
activities at a site level associated with study
start-up. Mariam has an in depth knowledge of
ICH-GCP and Health Canada regulations
With over a decade at IMC, Maryam Saleh
excels in FMS standards and leverages her
improvement training to enhance facility
management practices.
Nehad is a laboratory Specialist in chemistry
immunology unit , haematology unit,
parasitology and microbiology unit.
Nevien Elwahsh has always a desire to do more
for the broader healthcare sector, particularly for
those who cannot afford private medical care.
Omaima Idris is actively involved in civil society
having founded three non-governmental and
philanthropic organizations.
Prof. Dr. Ghada Farouk Hassan Saad is a
Professor of architecture and urban design
and planning.
Dr. May Hassaballah is a Professor of Internal
Medicine and Nephrology at Cairo University. She
is the President Elect of the Egyptian Society of
Nephrology and Transplantation (ESNT).
Sara started her own venture 'The Alpha
Events,' and organize various events and
activities, one of which is 7eb Nafsak – to
promote health and fitness.
13. As a healthcare professional,
patient care is always at the
forefront of a leader’s mind.
And this is the reason for the
healthcare industry to exist. A leader’s
care toward patients not only ensures
better treatment but also leads to better
patient outcomes and satisfaction.
Nevien Elwahsh is one such leader
who cares about these objectives to her
operational core. She is a dedicated
Dentist and healthcare professional
who has made it her mission to provide
accessible and affordable medical
services to underserved communities.
Nevien is currently working as a
dentist at Hayat Medical Center,
where she offers a range of dental
services to her private patients.
However, she has always been driven
by a desire to do more for the broader
healthcare sector, particularly for those
who cannot afford private medical
care.
To this end, Nevien has been actively
involved in volunteer work, providing
free medical services to
underprivileged communities in Egypt.
She frequently leads her dental team to
villages and poor areas, where they
offer medical services to those who
may not have access to healthcare
facilities. To make these services more
accessible, Nevien and her team travel
with movable clinical units, equipped
with all the necessary medical
equipment.
Nevien’s dedication and compassion
have earned her recognition in the
healthcare community in Egypt. Her
contributions to improving healthcare
access in underserved areas have not
gone unnoticed, and she has become a
role model for aspiring healthcare
professionals.
In addition to her volunteer work,
Nevien is committed to staying up-to-
date with the latest advancements in
the field of dentistry. She regularly
attends seminars and workshops to
enhance her skills and knowledge,
ensuring that her patients receive the
best possible care.
Let’s dive in to peek into Nevien
Elwahsh’s inspiring journey in
providing accessible healthcare
services to underserved communities
that have earned her a spot in the
prestigious magazine edition, “Egypt’s
10 Best Women in Healthcare for
2023.”
Dr. Nevien in Brief
Dr. Nevien is an oral & dental surgeon,
having attained a DBS Bachelor’s
degree from the Ain Shams University
of Egypt and a Master’s degree in
dentistry in Implantology from New
York University. She has also attained
a fellowship at the Royal College of
Surgeons of Edinburgh-London, UK.
Other degrees involve a diploma in
women’s health, international women’s
health and Human rights from Stanford
University, California, USA and a
Master’s degree in Nutrition from
European Nile University ENU.
She started her career in the healthcare
sector right after her graduation in
2003. She began working in
governmental clinics where she had
direct exposure to a large number of
patients & multiple cases. After that,
Nevien moved to a big hospital in
Midtown area-Shoubra the good
shepherd hospital. It is a large hospital,
and there were a lot of patient cases
which gave her a very good chance to
deal with different people. This was a
very important step to earn success in
work which came from clever patient
management & clinical management,
choosing the best treatment for the
patient that is suitable for his medical
history and his financial budget.
After that, Nevien shifted to private
work and worked in Hayat Dental
Hospital for all dentistry brunches such
as Operative, Crown and Bridge
Prosthesis, Implants, Esthetic dentistry
and also, the hospital has large
operating rooms so, Nevien and the
team could perform oral surgery &
under general anesthesia. “Also, we
have ICU units and I learned how to
deal with critical & emergency
management of patients related to
bleeding from the gingival or dental
origin,” adds Nevien. “I am very
successful in Esthetic dentistry as I do
ceramic restorations & veneers &
whitening using the zoom technique &
oral hygiene for the patient through
scaling and polishing every six months.
I also cooperate with my colleagues in
large surgical operations.”
I get
many messages
from ladies who benefit
from the volunteer work
that me and my team
does. They are extremely
happy that doctors come
to treat them. These
tes monies from people
make me feel all the
success in spreading
medical health awareness
& improving the medical
health care sector all
around Egypt.
Egypt's 10 Best Women in Healthcare For 2023
14. Volunteering Medical Work for
the Under Privileged
While Nevien did all the dental
services for the private patient, she
cared more about the healthcare sector.
She wants healthcare facilities to be
available to the whole society, especially
for patients who can’t afford private
treatment. Thus, she offers volunteer
medical services. She would go with her
dental team to the villages and poor areas
with the doctors and movable clinical units
(a large movable clinic inside a big car).
The unit has three clinics: Dental Clinic,
Internal Medicine Clinic & Gastroenterology
and Ophthalmology. “We go for free clinical
examination and treatment, giving the
medications for free too for patients who
cannot afford the expenses of the examination
and treatment,” says Nevien. “There are some
challenges that we face in the volunteer work as
these medical services are given for free. But we
are trying to increase our fundraising by
expressing my volunteer work for the doctors &
private enterprises so they can be sponsors for the
volunteer medical work.”
Leveraging Technological Developments
Nevien is currently working in the healthcare sector
and her target is to improve the healthcare sector by
increasing the high quality of patient care with newer
technological developments especially when it comes
to catering to their dynamics and medical needs. This is
true for patients especially if they can afford the
expenses of new technology in the restorations &
implants dental, or when they need bone augmentation
and surgical interference. “The new technology has truly
made dental work much easier for doctors as well as the
patients. But on the contrary, there is a financial side that
the dentist must look for and to do a suitable treatment plan
that is within the patients’ budget,” emphasizes Nevien.
She continues, “Technology increases the bond between the
doctors and patients. Our doctors depend on highly technical
software which has all the clinical & patient data related to the
patient’s medical, dental history, treatment plan, medication
and prescription. We also can print the prescriptions or send
them to the patient by e-mail. Social media is also very effective
15. as a marketing tool for new offers on the clinic related to
Christmas or vacations tone offers related to special discounts on
offers.”
Nevien also has a dental team who would post dental and
medical articles on social media which the patient can read and
benefit from the need for dental information. Moreover, there
is a medical survey related to the patient’s opinion of the
dental service & the treatment he or she got from the clinic.
“This is a very good way to improve our medical service,”
she adds.
Turning Challenges into Opportunities for Growth
Reflecting upon the challenges that Nevien faces in her
day-to-day operations, she says, “I face a challenge when
interacting with patients who have a basic education in
sticking to the treatment plan and taking medicines on
time. I conduct lectures for the people in villages in
promoting medical health awareness and teaching them
While I do all the dental services
for private pa ents, I care more
about the healthcare sector. I
want healthcare facili es to be
available to the whole society,
especially for the pa ent who
can’t afford private
treatment. Thus, I offer
volunteer medical services.
I’d go with my dental team
to the villages and poor
areas with the doctors
and movable clinical
units (a large movable
clinic inside a big car).
16. healthy habits that can be simple but increase human
health.”
She adds, “These lectures were very successful as they
have a great effect on people to change their attitude
towards improving their health. Despite it being a
challenge for me to work in villages, it gave me a chance
to make a great difference in improving the healthcare
sector.”
Words of Wisdom
To the budding entrepreneurs and enthusiasts who
desire to venture into the healthcare sector, Nevien
advises, “Your priority should be a successful patient
magnet and to put the proper treatment plan that is
suitable for patients so that they can get their
examination, treatment and medicines on their
budget.
Scaling 2023 and Beyond
Nevien envisions scaling her services and
operations for 2023 by increasing the technical
devices at her private clinic and expanding the
medical staff so that she could offer a wide
range of medical treatment for her patients as
well as for volunteer work.
“I want to go everywhere where there is a
need for doctor, examination and treatment
to improve the health care sector &
services,” says Nevien.
Attaining Patients’ Trust
“I get many messages from ladies who
benefit from the volunteer work that me
and my team does. They are extremely
happy that doctors come to treat them.
These testimonies from people make
me feel all the success in spreading
the medical health awareness &
improving the medical health care
sector all around Egypt,” concludes
Nevien.
17.
18. 16
A er 6 years of
reaching my goal, I
decided to help every
person who suffers
from the same problem,
First, by sharing my
knowledge. Second, by
finding the best doctors
to help me support
obese pa ents through
their journey.
Sara M. El-Faek
Founder & CEO
The Alpha Events
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
19. 17
Sara M. El-Faek
From Ba ling Obesity to Inspiring Wellness
An inspiring story of perseverance, determination, and
compassion
In the busy city of Cairo, amidst the vibrant livelihood,
there exists a guiding light for those seeking
empowerment and better health. Meet Sara M. El-
Faek, a pioneering advocate for wellness and a woman
whose unwavering commitment to uplifting others has
become an inspiration to all who cross her path.
Sara's story resonates with anyone who has experienced
obesity. Being overweight since childhood, she battled
obesity for 30 years. After being through a dark phase of
depression, she decided to come out of it and help others
like her. This was the inception of 7eb Nafsak- an initiative
designed to address the main causes of obesity so that
individuals can start taking proactive action for better
health.
Sara's graduation from the High Institute of Social Work in
Cairo, Egypt gave her a foundation in social work and
related fields. After switching various jobs, she found her
passion in events and worked for various organizations. To
excel in the field, she did various event and project
management courses. Being an ambitious person with an
entrepreneurial spirit, she started her own venture –
The Alpha Events. They organize various events and
activities, one of which is 7eb Nafsak – to promote health
and fitness.
Sara's indomitable spirit and unwavering commitment serve
as an inspiration to anyone fighting obesity or eating
disorders. Her journey is a testament to the power of
perseverance, and her contributions to the realm of
healthcare in Egypt are nothing short of commendable. By
creating meaningful initiatives like 7eb Nafsak, she is
effecting positive change and fostering a healthier society.
Healthcare Everything interacted with Sara and got a few
insights into her life and her contribution to the healthcare
sector. Below are excerpts from the interview.
Kindly brief us about yourself and shed some light on
your journey to venture into the healthcare sector.
I've been overweight since I was a child and lived almost 30
years of my life as an obese patient. I've tried everything
anyone can imagine to lose weight, especially after I
reached 150 Kg. In 2011 I had my first surgery to lose
weight (Gastric Sleeve), and I lost almost 50 Kg in 1 year.
But unfortunately, because it was not a suitable surgery for
my case, I gained back all my lost weight.
After that I entered a closed loop of depression and
emotional eating until after 7 years I decided, that's enough,
I have to get myself out of that loop. I was broke and had
no money but I kept searching for a way to solve my
problem until I found a way in Kasr El Ainy Hospital. In
September 2017 I started a new journey to lose weight by
having my Second surgery (Gastric bypass).
After 6 years of reaching my goal, I decided to help every
person who suffers from the same problem, First, by
sharing my knowledge. Second, by finding the best doctors
to help me support obese patients through their journey.
And that was the beginning of the 7eb-Nafsak Initiative to
support obese and overweight patients.
What services and responsibilities are you part of on a
daily basis?
Sharing the right knowledge with the patients and the
community is one of the important responsibilities on our
shoulders. Especially with the huge number of bullies
which affects badly on our friends.
Also, we are trying to find the best doctors and create a
supporting community for people with eating disorders.
Egypt's 10 Best Women in Healthcare For 2023
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
20. 18
What is your opinion on aligning high-quality patient
care with newer technological developments, especially
when it comes to catering to the dynamic needs of the
patients?
Using technology in all industries is a must, and in medical
services, it's very important to combine technology and
human communication.
What R&D operations are you conducting at present
and why?
Learning the newest ways to support patients, fight
bullying, and try to transfer our knowledge into our
community.
On the other side, we have made a partnership with another
initiative to train professionals on how to work with
patients using the latest treatment techniques.
What are some of the challenges you face when
conducting operations and how do you turn them into
opportunities for growth?
Ÿ Fund: Took a loan from my cousin to launch the first
event- I paid him back after the companies paid for their
sponsorship packages.
Ÿ Timing: I Was eager to make the first day of the event
th
on World Obesity Day, but as it was on the 4 of March,
it wasn't the best timing because March is full of events.
So, I decided to change the timing because it's not
necessary to be attached to world day as much as
helping people.
Being an industry expert, would you like to give advice
to budding entrepreneurs and enthusiasts aspiring to
venture into the healthcare sector that you are catering
to?
Believe in your dream, knowledge is the key to success so
don't be shy to ask, always keep learning, and the most
important advice: Patient's health is your first priority.
How do you envision scaling your services and
operations in 2023 and beyond?
First by forming an NGO as it will be easy to get support
from companies.
After getting funds from organizations and making deals
with companies and hospitals to buy medical equipment
from them, we can perform the surgery for the people who
can't afford the surgery cost. And also, we can get make the
right curing panel from different medical specialties.
After the experiment's success, we can Spread it to the
middle east to support the cause there.
A New Ini a ve is planned to raise the
Health Awareness of children's diabetes
in Schools.
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
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Never
Miss an
Issue
22. 20
Women
Thriving in
Male-Dominated
Specialties
Medical
In the ever-evolving landscape of medicine, women
have consistently defied conventional norms and
shattered glass ceilings, nowhere more evident than in
traditionally male-dominated medical specialties. While
gender disparities have historically persisted in healthcare, a
wave of determined and resilient female professionals is
challenging these norms and redefining success.
In this article, we will explore the inspiring stories of
women who are thriving in male-dominated medical
specialties, highlighting the barriers they've overcome and
the transformative impact they're making on the field.
The Historical Divide
For decades, certain medical specialties have been
dominated by men, driven by traditional gender roles and
stereotypes that limit women's opportunities. Surgical
disciplines, cardiology, orthopedics, and neurosurgery, are
just a few examples where women were underrepresented,
facing barriers that ranged from implicit bias to lack of
mentorship. However, a new era has dawned, marked by
pioneering women who have pushed the boundaries of
Breaking Barriers
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
24. 22
possibility and ushered in a new era of gender equity in
medicine.
Defying Stereotypes
One of the most significant barriers women in male-
dominated medical specialties face is the persistence of
stereotypes that undermine their capabilities. Surgeons and
cardiologists, for instance, have long been associated with
traits stereotypically linked to masculinity, such as
assertiveness and decisiveness. However, women breaking
into these specialties have not only defied these stereotypes
but have proven that diverse perspectives can enrich patient
care and outcomes.
Trailblazers in Surgery
Female surgeons have been particularly instrumental in
challenging the status quo. Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, the
first woman to receive the Medal of Honor, paved the way
for future generations of female surgeons by serving as a
contract surgeon during the Civil War. Today, countless
women have followed in her footsteps, taking on leadership
roles and excelling in fields like cardiothoracic surgery and
orthopedics, traditionally male-dominated disciplines.
Cardiology and the Quest for Equality
Cardiology, with its fast-paced environment and life-or-
death decisions, has often been considered an exclusively
male realm. Dr. C. Noel Bairey Merz, a prominent
cardiologist, has been instrumental in debunking this myth.
Her groundbreaking research on women's heart health has
not only saved lives but has illuminated the need for
gender-specific care. Dr. Merz's efforts have spurred
conversations about the importance of female
representation in cardiology and the critical role women
play in advancing the field.
Championing Diversity in Neurosurgery
In the realm of neurosurgery, Dr. Odette Harris is a
trailblazer. As the first African American woman to become
a professor of neurosurgery, she has shattered multiple
barriers. Her journey underscores the importance of
representation, mentorship, and fostering an inclusive
environment. Dr. Harris's accomplishments serve as an
inspiration to aspiring female neurosurgeons and highlight
the transformative power of breaking down gender-based
barriers.
Breaking Down Barriers
Overcoming gender disparities in male-dominated medical
specialties requires a multifaceted approach aimed at
addressing systemic barriers and promoting inclusivity.
Ÿ Mentorship and Sponsorship: Establishing mentorship
programs that pair aspiring female specialists with
experienced professionals can provide invaluable
guidance and support. Sponsorship, wherein established
professionals advocate for their mentees, can accelerate
career progression.
Ÿ Cultural Shifts: Medical institutions and societies must
actively challenge biases and promote diversity.
Encouraging open conversations about gender
disparities and fostering a culture of inclusivity can pave
the way for change.
Ÿ Flexible Work Environments: Creating flexible work
arrangements can benefit both women and men in
medical specialties. These arrangements can facilitate
work-life balance, making it easier for professionals to
excel in their careers while maintaining personal
responsibilities.
Ÿ Advocacy for Gender Equity: Women and their allies
must advocate for gender equity at all levels of medical
education and practice. This includes addressing pay
gaps, representation in leadership roles, and
opportunities for professional growth.
Ÿ Empowerment Through Education: Education
campaigns that challenge stereotypes and biases can
lead to broader acceptance of women in male-dominated
specialties. Highlighting the achievements of female
professionals can shift perceptions and promote
equality.
Conclusion
The emergence of women thriving in traditionally male-
dominated medical specialties marks a significant milestone
in the journey towards gender equity in healthcare. By
breaking down barriers, defying stereotypes, and
showcasing their exceptional skills, these women are not
only reshaping their respective fields but are inspiring
future generations to pursue their passions without
limitations. As medicine evolves to reflect the diverse
talents of its practitioners, the impact of these trailblazing
women serves as a testament to the power of determination
and the transformative possibilities of breaking through
gender-based barriers.
-Pooja Shah
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
27. 25
ife is full of uncertainties; youths must be cautious
Labout the amount of danger to which they expose
themselves. There are several determinants that
could combine to influence suicidal ideation among youths.
They include psychiatric, physical, social, and familial
determinants, self-esteem, school stress, autonomy, affairs,
vulnerability, impulsivity, and thrill-seeking activity. Youths
are particularly vulnerable to suicide on account of their
emotional immaturity and temperamental instability; rapid
additions to knowledge, intense competition, examinations,
and poor results expose students to tremendous stress and
trigger off depression. Often, high expectations of parents
can frustrate them and add to their depression if they are
unable to live up to these expectations.
Awareness At School and Media Can Help:
Suicidal prevention through awareness among youths is,
therefore, a high priority, given the fact that in many
regions, most people in this age group attend school; this
appears to be an excellent place to develop appropriate
preventive action.
Need for Active outreach and traditional and public
campaign to promote mental health and reduce distress
is necessary, especially for youths with a history of
psychiatric disorder or previous suicidal attempts.
According to WHO, suicide is the fourth leading cause of
death among those aged 15-29; more than 700 000 people
die due to suicide every year. 77% of global suicides occur
in low-and-middle-income-counties (LMIC) like India,
among the other 218 countries. A prior suicide attempt is
the single most important risk factor for suicide in the
general population. Ingestion of pesticides, hanging, and
firearms are among the most common methods of
suicide globally.
Suicide Rate in India, 2021
In India, according to the National Crimes Record
Bureau (NCRB), in 2021, 1,65,033 suicides were reported,
and more than 1.39lakh Indians died by suicide in the year
2019, 67% of which were youths (93,061). Compared to
2018 numbers were (89,407). Youth suicide in India has
risen by 4%. The overall suicide figures rose by 3.4 % at the
same time. Hanging was found to be the most common
method of attempting suicide. Around 74,629 people
hanged themselves in the year 2019.
The Cause of Suicide in India, including Covid-19
Stressors
Further reports by NCRB reveals that family issues, love
affairs, drug abuse, and mental illness (and recently is,
COVID-19 Stressor) appear to be the top cause of suicide
among youths in India. Major variations are noticed across
India, probably related to reporting practices. In 2022
Maharashtra reported the most suicide cases at 22,2027,
followed by 18,925 suicides in Tamil Nadu and 14,965
suicides in Madhya Pradesh, All accounting for 50.4% of
the total suicides in the country.
COVID-19 stressor is an important suicidal
determinant; mental health consequences of the COVID-
19 crisis, including suicide ideation, are likely to be present
for a long time and peak later than the actual pandemic. The
Hindu reported what is possibly the first case of COVID-
19-related suicide, which occurred in Kerala (India) on June
2nd, 2020. There was a significantly higher rate of suicidal
ideation among youth, increased stress, anxiety, fears, and
loneliness among the youth, due to Covid-19, which
appears to correspond with times when Covid-19 stressors
and community responses (e.g., stay-at-home orders and
school closures) were heightened, and indicating that youth
experienced elevated distress.
How to Detect Suicide Behavior Before It Happens
Warning signs of suicidal ideation among youths include
behavioral, verbal, and non-verbal cues. It is important to
observe these warning signs early and seek immediate help
to be able to save lives.
Ÿ Talking about: wanting to die, having great guilt or
shame, and being a burden to others.
Ÿ Feelings: empty, hopeless, trapped or having no reason
to live, feeling extreme sadness, anxiety, agitated or full
of range, unbearable emotional or physical pain.
Ÿ Change in behavior such as: making plans to die,
isolating from friends, giving away important items or
making a will or suicidal notes, taking a dangerous risk,
mood swings substance abuse.
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
BARACK OBAMA
28. 26
· Verbal cues like—Passing a negative statement”
· “I want to die, end my life,”
· “I am going to kill myself,”
· “It's too much to bear,”
· “You would be better without me,”
· “I am not useful,”"
· “I don't want life anymore" should be taken
seriously, and urgent help or referral should be
done.”
Preventing suicide requires strategies at all levels; this
includes preventive and protective strategies for
individuals, families, and communities.
The following ways can help to prevent suicide such as:
· Improving coping and problem-solving skills,
· Self-awareness and emotional regulation,
· Interpersonal relationships with peers, family and
mental health and medical provider,
· Stress and Anger management,
· Concentration during class hours,
· Avoid bullying and substance abuse,
· Reach out for help immediately.
Note: Youths who feel suicidal are not likely to seek help
directly; however, friends, peers, and school personnel
can recognize the warning signs and take immediate
action to keep the youth safe.
The following actions should be taken if youths
demonstrate signs of suicide:
· Remain calm,
· Speak directly about feelings,
· Assured them that there was help and that they would
not feel like this forever,
· Be present and listen,
· Keep them away from means of harm,
· Get help from a psychologist/ psychiatrist/ caregiving
adult.
Management of suicidal ideation includes a thorough
assessment of the individual's Current risk of imminent
harm and creating a treatment plan in collaboration
with the patient and any involved supports.
This process needs to be individualized, collaborative, and
completed using a calm, cooperative, and curious interview
style... Improving the self-confidence and character of the
youth will help improve positive behavior.
Skill development programs and encouraging more
connections, caring, and compassion among youths can
help reduce the incidence of suicidal ideation.
Most people can be treated with a combination of anti-
depressant medication and cognitive behavioral therapy;
contact your guardian/psychologist/psychiatrist in case of
suicidal ideation.
In conclusion, we should recognize that suicide has a
powerful effect on the individual's family, school, and
community. We must deal with it as a public health crisis in
our schools, clinics, and society. The high suicide rate
among youths emphasizes the need for urgent intervention,
Suicide is a result of a complex dynamic and the unique
interplay between numerous contributing determinants. The
youths lack the effort to predict and prevent suicide and
tend to fail.
On the other hand, Improving the knowledge regarding
determinants of suicidal ideation and making the youth
understand the consequences, will help them to avoid
extreme stress; creating awareness among youths
regarding determinants of suicidal ideation will
substantially decrease the amount of suicide among
youth.
I am Priscillia Stephen U., United States Registered Nurse, MSN, BSN. A mental
health advocate with First-Class Degree in Nursing from Dr. NTR University, India,
and a Postgraduate Degree holder in Psychiatric Nursing. A seasoned professional
Nurse, with mul -year experience working with People Tree Hospitals, one of
India's Best Performing Hospitals.
People Tree Hospitals, India
About the Author
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
29.
30. 28
Gender Roles
Exploring the
Impact of
in Healthcare
he realm of healthcare is undeniably intricate,
Tintertwined with cultural, societal, and gender
dynamics that shape its landscape. A pivotal facet
of this complex interplay is the role of women as
caregivers. While medical advancements have reshaped the
healthcare sector, traditional gender roles have persisted,
often casting women as primary caregivers.
Let's delve into the impact of gender roles on healthcare,
focusing on the significant role women play as caregivers,
the challenges they encounter, and the need for a more
equitable healthcare paradigm.
The Historical Context
Historically, societal norms have assigned women the role
of caregivers, rooted in the perception that their nurturing
nature predisposes them to excel in this role. This gendered
division of labor extends to healthcare, where women are
not only the patients but also the ones providing care. From
tending to family members during illnesses to choosing
healthcare options for children and the elderly, women's
caregiving responsibilities have been engrained in cultural
expectations.
Women as Caregivers
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
32. 30
Women as Primary Caregivers
Women's role as caregivers is particularly evident in the
context of family health. They are often the primary
decision-makers when it comes to seeking medical
treatment for children and elderly relatives. This caregiving
role can extend to managing chronic illnesses, coordinating
appointments, and administering medications. This
responsibility can be both rewarding and challenging, as
women juggle their caregiving duties alongside other life
roles, such as careers and personal aspirations.
The Burden of Caregiving
While caregiving can be a deeply fulfilling experience, it
also comes with a significant emotional, physical, and
psychological burden. The unequal distribution of
caregiving responsibilities can lead to burnout and
jeopardize women's own health. Many women find
themselves torn between their own well-being and the
needs of their loved ones, often neglecting their personal
health in the process.
Impact on Career Opportunities
The caregiving role women often assume can have a direct
impact on their career trajectories. Balancing caregiving
duties with professional responsibilities can result in career
disruptions, reduced working hours, and even career breaks.
This, in turn, contributes to the gender pay gap and limits
women's advancement opportunities in the workplace. The
societal expectation that women are primarily responsible
for caregiving can perpetuate stereotypes that undermine
their professional capabilities.
Barriers in Accessing Healthcare
Women's role as caregivers intersects with their own access
to healthcare services. In many cases, women prioritize the
well-being of their families over their own health needs.
This selflessness can lead to delayed or neglected medical
care, potentially exacerbating health conditions that could
have been addressed earlier. Additionally, the time
constraints of caregiving can make it difficult for women to
schedule and attend regular medical appointments for
themselves.
Reforming Gender Roles in Healthcare
Addressing the impact of gender roles on healthcare
requires a multifaceted approach that challenges traditional
norms and promotes equity.
Ÿ Promoting Gender Equality: Advocating for gender
equality at home, in the workplace, and within
healthcare systems is crucial. When caregiving
responsibilities are more evenly distributed between
partners, women can better manage their professional
and personal lives.
Ÿ Flexible Work Policies: Employers can play a pivotal
role by offering flexible work arrangements, such as
remote work or flexible hours, which would enable
women to balance their caregiving roles with their
careers more effectively.
Ÿ Supportive Healthcare Systems: Healthcare providers
can prioritize women's health by offering services that
cater to their specific needs. This includes
accommodating busy schedules and providing education
on preventive care.
Ÿ Changing Social Norms: Challenging societal
expectations that cast women as primary caregivers is
essential. This can be achieved through educational
campaigns, media representation that portrays diverse
caregiving roles, and open discussions about the
importance of shared responsibilities.
Ÿ Self-Care Advocacy: Encouraging women to prioritize
their own health is crucial. Promoting self-care
strategies and raising awareness about the long-term
implications of neglecting personal health can empower
women to seek medical attention when needed.
Conclusion
The gendered role of women as caregivers in healthcare is a
complex issue deeply rooted in historical norms and
societal expectations. While women have made remarkable
strides in various fields, the persistence of traditional gender
roles in caregiving continues to impact their health, career
opportunities, and overall well-being. Breaking down these
barriers requires concerted efforts from individuals,
communities, employers, and healthcare systems. By
challenging these norms, promoting gender equality, and
fostering supportive environments, we can pave the way for
a more equitable and healthier future for women in
healthcare.
August 2023 www.healthcareeverything.com
