What Are the Roles of the Office on Women’s Health?

Women’s health has historically been underrepresented in public policy, medical research, and healthcare delivery. To address this disparity, the U.S. government established the Office on Women’s Health (OWH) in 1991 under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The OWH plays a critical role in shaping and implementing initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of women and girls across the country.

This article explores the foundational purpose of the Office on Women’s Health, its key roles, major programmes, and the impact it has had on women's healthcare in the United States.

What Is the Office on Women’s Health (OWH)?

The OWH was created to ensure that women’s health concerns receive the focused attention they deserve. It leads national efforts to advance women’s health through public education, research, policy guidance, and interagency collaborations.

The office is guided by a vision where every woman in America is healthier and more empowered to manage her health across all stages of life.

Key Responsibilities of the Office on Women’s Health

The OWH takes a comprehensive, cross-cutting approach to women’s health that addresses a range of issues including reproductive health, mental health, heart disease, cancer prevention, and access to preventive care.

1. Health Education and Awareness

The OWH creates and distributes accessible, evidence-based health information on topics such as breastfeeding, menopause, mental health, heart disease, and sexual health. It maintains the popular WomensHealth.gov platform, offering a centralised hub for trusted resources.

2. Policy Development and Implementation

OWH supports the development of policies that promote equitable healthcare for women. This includes advocating for health insurance coverage for preventive screenings and services under the Affordable Care Act, such as mammograms and contraceptive access.

3. Coordination Across Federal Agencies

The office collaborates with agencies such as the CDC, NIH, and FDA to