We call for the reinstatement of sex-based, respectful communication that meets the healthcare needs of women. Full impact assessments should have been done before any changes to communications.
Removal of sex-based language is discriminatory and could leave the NHS open to legal challenge. The current removal of the language of women in healthcare communication harms women and undermines health outcomes. The Clinical Advisory Network on Sex and Gender is a multidisciplinary group of clinicians concerned about changes to the NHS.UK website which have removed accurate and respectful terminology about women’s health. Re: The importance of the word “woman” in communication about women’s health To: Chief Executives for NHS England, NHS Scotland, NHS Wales, and Health and Social Care, Northern Ireland: Amanda Pritchard, Caroline Lamb, Judith Paget and Peter MayĪnd, Chief Nursing Officers for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland: Dame Ruth May, Alex McMahon, Sue Tranka and Maria McIlgorm.
