The data: Just 31% of all US voters think the healthcare system does a good or very good job of meeting the health needs of women, according to a recent Center Forward survey of more than 1,200 US voters. That compares with 41% who think the same about men’s health needs.

Overall, 92% of voters agree that women have unique health needs deserving of special attention. Specifically, respondents say policymakers should ensure women have access to health screenings for women-specific cancers (81%), prenatal care (78%), cardiovascular care (77%), postpartum care (72%), and diabetes and weight management care (68%).

Why it matters: Women are the healthcare system's biggest consumers, yet many don't think the healthcare system is adequately meeting their health needs. Women account for roughly 60% of US healthcare spending, or about $2.1 trillion every year, per Ingelborg Investments, and disproportionately use primary care, mental and behavioral, metabolic and hormonal, and cardiovascular services.

Half of women voters say the healthcare system does not pay enough attention to their health issues, according to Center Forward. At the same time, expectations for women's healthcare are growing. More than 9 in 10 (91%) of commercially insured women want expanded women-specific health offerings, even though 52% are concerned that specific offerings will be reduced, per a January Evernorth Health Services report.

Implications for healthcare systems and providers: Closing the gap between women’s healthcare expectations and care delivery doesn't necessarily require entirely new services. It requires better access and easier navigation. Women are four percentage points more likely than men (13% versus 9%) to say they have a hard time finding quality health care, while 40% say the healthcare system is not designed for them, per Center Forward. Organizations that invest there and clearly communicate their women's health services will be better positioned to meet rising patient expectations and strengthen trust.

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