Celebrating Women's History Month: Honoring Healthcare Pioneers

As #WomensHistoryMonth unfolds, it's a time to pause and celebrate the remarkable contributions of women in healthcare, both past and present. These pioneers have shaped the landscape of medicine, advancing the well-being of individuals and communities worldwide. Yet, despite their profound impact, many of these trailblazers have remained obscured by the shadows of history due to their gender. At CLYDE, we're proud to shine a light on their stories and amplify these women’s voices.

Unveiling Forgotten Legacies

Throughout history, women have been at the forefront of healthcare innovation, driving progress and challenging societal norms. Among these remarkable figures is Mary Putnam Jacobi, MD (1842-1906), whose groundbreaking work shattered the prevailing myth surrounding menstruation, paving the way for greater understanding and improved treatment. Similarly, Rebecca Lee Crumpler, MD (1831-1895), an African American pioneer, defied racial and gender barriers to become the first African American woman to earn a medical degree in the United States, leaving an indelible mark on the field of medicine. It's important to note that while there are countless women who have made significant contributions to healthcare, we have chosen to highlight these women because they truly broke down barriers, challenging the norms of their time and inspiring change.?

Another luminary deserving of recognition is Gerty Theresa Cori, PhD (1896-1957), whose groundbreaking research in biochemistry earned her a Nobel Prize, making her the first woman to receive this prestigious honor in Physiology or Medicine.?

These women exemplify resilience, determination, and intellectual prowess, challenging the status quo and inspiring future generations to pursue their passions relentlessly.

Championing Contemporary Leaders

Amidst the homage we pay to the trailblazers of the past, it's crucial to underscore the persistent gender disparities in healthcare that continue to shape our present reality. Women, in particular, face unique challenges and unmet needs within the healthcare landscape. According to a recent report, Closing the Women’s Health Gap, from the World Economic Forum, women spend more of their lifetime in poor health than men, grappling with, on average, 25% more debilitating health issues throughout their lives. These stark statistics spotlight the urgent need for a dedicated focus on women's health and the elimination of gender disparities in healthcare.

That’s why we’re not only honoring the legacy of those who paved the way, but also celebrating the modern-day heroes who continue to shape the future of healthcare, particularly in women’s health. Asima Ahmad, MD, MPH, FACOG , CEO of Carrot Fertility, embodies the spirit of innovation, empowering patients and simplifying the fertility journey for countless individuals. Kiki Freedman , Co-founder & CEO of HeyJane who I had the pleasure to see speak at HLTH USA 2023, is revolutionizing healthcare accessibility for women, ensuring that quality care is within reach for all. And Alessandra Henderson , Co-founder & CEO at Elektra Health, is leading the charge in de-stigmatizing menopause and advocating for comprehensive women's health solutions.?

These women are not only breaking new ground in healthcare but are specifically addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by women, making significant strides towards a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system for all.

Spotlight on Change Agents

As communicators, it's our responsibility to illuminate the stories and contributions of all who are making a difference in our world. We're proud to highlight pioneering women among our own clients, like Stacey Bledsoe , Head of Global Clinical Trial Diversity and Inclusion at Gilead Sciences, who is leading the charge towards a healthier, more equitable future for all through diversity in clinical trials.

At CLYDE, it's also been our privilege to feature remarkable female voices on our Collision podcast, including Karen Luong , the co-founder and co-lead of Husch Blackwell’s Psychedelics and Emerging Therapies practice as well as Kathryn Tucker, JD , the National Psychedelics Association's Director of Advocacy. Both are championing broader access for promising psychedelic treatments for mental health, end of life care and more. Through these conversations, we strive to elevate diverse viewpoints on the evolving landscape of healthcare and facilitate engaging discussions that spark positive change.

This Women's History Month, let us recommit ourselves to honoring the legacies of those who came before us and uplifting the voices of women who are shaping the future of healthcare. Together, let's continue to celebrate, support, and empower women in all facets of life, ensuring that their contributions are recognized and celebrated for generations to come.

#WomenInHealthcare #HealthcarePioneers #BreakingBarriers #HerStory #WomenInMedicine