The pending election has significant implications for women's health, as many of these very real challenges—beyond the issue of abortion access—are not being adequately addressed. On October 28, HC3 hosted a virtual program to address the critical intersections between women’s health and the social determinants that shape their lives. The panel discussion examined the substantial challenges women face—such as period poverty, domestic abuse, caregiving pressures, and rising living costs—that often force them to sacrifice their health for family essentials, highlighting the need to create equitable systems that support women’s holistic well-being, empower their thriving, and enable full social and economic participation.
Moderator:
Meghan Phillipp, Executive Director, HC3
Panelists:
Betzy Berganza Orellana, Director, Health Promotions and Navigation Services, YWCA
Paris Thomas, Executive Director, Equal Hope
Linda Xochitl Tortolero, President and CEO, Mujeres Latinas en Accion
Jessica P. Zachs, Chair & Chief Executive Officer, Dignity Grows
Watch the Event:
Discussion Highlights
The panel discussion highlighted barriers to health care and social equity for women, particularly in underserved communities. Critical issues discussed included financial instability, limited access to quality care, and cultural stigmas that often prevent women from seeking necessary health services. Panelists emphasized holistic approaches to women's health, addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social factors that impact well-being. Many speakers shared how their organizations support women through community health worker models, partnerships, and culturally specific services that build trust within their communities.
A recurring theme was addressing systemic inequities through policy changes, from tackling period poverty to ensuring access to quality cancer screenings. Panelists also discussed the compounding burdens of transportation, mental health, and financial instability that affect women, especially caregivers, who often lack adequate support for their own health needs.
Key Takeaways
Community Health Models: Programs that deliver healthcare directly within communities—such as promotora de salud models—are critical for building trust and ensuring access by utilizing local health workers who understand community needs, culture, and language.
"The idea behind it is to be physically present in spaces where community members reside...it’s not enough to have flyers in Spanish; you need to have a real conversation to build trust." — Linda Tortolero, Mujeres Latinas en Acción
Addressing Stigma in Health: Education and open discussions are vital to dismantling cultural stigmas, especially reproductive and mental health. Normalizing these conversations enables women to seek the support they need without hesitation.
"Many women of color choose to be the rock of their families...they don't even disclose their diagnoses to avoid being seen as vulnerable." — Paris Thomas, Equal Hope
Intersectional Advocacy: Effectively tackling social determinants of health holistically requires systemic policy solutions and partnerships across sectors. Addressing period poverty, quality health care access, and caregiver support necessitates broad policy changes and multifaceted advocacy.
"It's not just a medical issue; it’s about building community awareness...health is shaped by economic and social factors beyond what you get in the clinic." — Betzy Berganza, YWCA Metropolitan Chicago
Supporting Caregivers: Women, especially those in caregiving roles, face significant isolation and stress. Mental health resources, respite care, and financial assistance are essential to truly support them so they can sustain their well-being and care for others.
"Caregiving is a very lonely experience. If we are going to live to our values to be an inclusive society...we need to recognize caregiving includes supporting not just nuclear family members." — Linda Tortolero, Mujeres Latinas en Acción