Empowering Women Through Health Education and Outreach

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Women spend more of their life in ill health. There is a lack of research in women’s health and symptoms such as painful periods are dismissed. There is a lack of health equity between men and women. Discover how HIYOS GP Practice and West Middlesex Hospital are working together to improve women’s health in Hounslow. Learn about collaborative care, menopause awareness, and how local women can get involved.

Key Takeaways

  • HIYOS GP Practice collaborates with West Middlesex Hospital to enhance women’s health through community engagement and awareness initiatives.
  • Dr. Archana Dixit emphasizes the need for better collaboration between primary and secondary care to improve outcomes for women.
  • Community outreach programs, including group menopause sessions, help empower women by addressing their health concerns in a supportive environment.
  • Innovative ideas like monthly gynaecology clinics in GP surgeries aim to make specialist care more accessible and tailored to women’s needs.
  • Both Saira and Dr. Dixit are committed to personalising healthcare for women by strengthening partnerships among GPs, hospitals, and community organisations.

Introducing the Experts

At HIYOS GP Practice, collaboration is at the heart of how we deliver care. Recently, our Practice Manager, Saira, interviewed Dr. Archana Dixit, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at West Middlesex Hospital (part of the Chelsea and Westminster Trust), to discuss women’s health, community engagement, and how healthcare professionals can better work together to support women in Hounslow.

Dr. Dixit shared her inspiring journey into obstetrics and gynaecology those thinking of going into this career. Born and trained in India, she experenced barrier when she wanted to do surgery as she was a woman. She persevered, a decision she’s never regretted.

“There’s not a single day that I’ve regretted taking it up. It’s one of the most rewarding specialties — helping mothers and babies is truly special.”

Her story is a reminder to young people considering a career in healthcare: follow your passion, not stereotypes.

A Day in the Life of a Gynaecologist

A typical day for Dr. Dixit begins early — with teaching sessions for medical students followed by antenatal or gynaecology clinics. Her work includes caring for women with complex pregnancies, performing surgeries, and supporting women’s health in the community.

However, like many NHS professionals, she acknowledges the challenges:

“Administrative work can be overwhelming, and meetings that don’t lead to real outcomes can take time away from patient care.”

The Importance of Collaboration Across Primary and Secondary Care for women’s health equity

Both Saira and Dr. Dixit agreed that healthcare often operates in silos — with hospitals, GP surgeries, and community teams working separately. Yet, the goal is shared: better health for women.

Dr. Dixit highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between primary care (GPs) and secondary care (hospitals):

“We are all working toward the same goal, but we need to collaborate better. By working together, we can reduce delays, improve patient experience, and create more joined-up services.”

Empowering Women Through Education and Community Outreach

Women’s health has historically been underrepresented in research and public awareness. Many women still feel their symptoms are “normal” or not serious enough to discuss. Saira explained how HIYOS GP Practice is helping change that perception through group menopause sessions, which create safe spaces for women to share experiences and learn together.

“We invited a small group of women to talk openly about menopause — from different cultures and backgrounds. It was powerful to see them realise they’re not alone.”

Dr. Dixit added that engagement through faith groups and community organisations can help reach women who may not otherwise seek help.

“Faith groups, local women’s circles, and community connectors are vital. When women feel seen and understood, they’re more likely to engage with healthcare.”

Hounslow’s diversity is one of its strengths — but it also means healthcare must be tailored to meet different cultural needs.
Dr. Dixit explained that using community role models, translated resources, and culturally relatable imagery makes health communication more effective.

“When women see someone who looks like them, speaks their language, and understands their culture, they’re far more likely to engage.”

This approach is already making a difference in local sessions covering topics such as menopause, diabetes, and cervical screening.

A Shared Vision for Women’s Health in Hounslow

The discussion concluded with a shared commitment: to build stronger links between GPs, hospitals, and community groups so women receive personalised, compassionate, and inclusive healthcare. This can go some way to build relationships and improve health equity.

Ideas for the Future: Bringing Care Closer to Home

One innovative idea discussed was the possibility of monthly gynaecology clinics within GP surgeries like HIYOS. This would make specialist advice more accessible, reduce waiting times, and help women feel more comfortable in familiar surroundings.

Dr. Dixit also suggested offering training for GPs and practice nurses to perform simple procedures, such as cervical polyp removal or pessary fitting, to prevent unnecessary hospital referrals.

“With the right training and collaboration, we can manage more women’s health concerns directly in the community.”

Putting Patients at the Centre

Both agreed that patients — especially women — should be actively involved in shaping services.

“Women will tell us what they need,” said Dr. Dixit. “They prefer coming to their local surgery rather than travelling to hospital. It’s our role to listen and make care as accessible as possible.”

At HIYOS GP Practice, we’re proud to be part of this journey — working with partners like West Middlesex Hospital to improve access, awareness, and wellbeing for women across Hounslow.

If you’re concerned about any of the points mentioned, please reach out to your GP.

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