Economy Looms Large Among Women’s Healthcare Concerns

Some women feel financial pressure to defer checkups and curtail use of prescription medications, including contraceptives.

In a recent Gallup survey for the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, two thirds of U.S. women of reproductive age (18–44) reported being affected by the economy. Although most of the respondents indicated that they had healthcare coverage, 10% of those who use contraceptives were concerned about being able to afford them. Nonetheless, 20% of respondents were more concerned about unintended pregnancies than they were 1 year ago. Regarding routine healthcare, 14% of women reported postponing annual gynecologic exams because of financial concerns, and 15% reported cutting back on or eliminating certain medications because of cost.

Comment: These findings provide a stark reminder that some women feel financial pressure to defer…

Author

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

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RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Andrew M. Kaunitz, MD

Disclosures

RoyaltiesUpToDate

Grant/Research SupportMerck, Mithra, Medicines360

Editorial BoardsContraception; Menopause; Contraceptive Technology Update; OBG Management; Medscape OB/GYN & Women’s Health

Economy Looms Large Among Women’s Healthcare Concerns

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