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VOL. 7, ISSUE 2 (2022)
Feminist perspective on healthcare: A critical analysis of power dynamics
Authors
Dr. Chaganti Rami Reddy
Abstract
This paper presents a critical examination of
healthcare through a feminist perspective, focusing on the ways in which power
dynamics, social hierarchies, and gendered norms shape access, experiences, and
outcomes in health systems. It emphasizes that healthcare is not neutral but is
embedded within broader social, cultural, and institutional structures that
produce and perpetuate inequalities. By reviewing existing literature, the
study explores how gender intersects with other social identities such as disability,
ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, influencing both patient experiences and
professional roles within healthcare. The analysis highlights that men and
women, as well as marginalized groups, navigate health systems differently due
to socially constructed expectations and systemic barriers. The paper also
critiques traditional biomedical and policy frameworks, which often focus
narrowly on clinical aspects and fail to address the social determinants of
health. It underscores the importance of inclusive, intersectional, and
context-sensitive approaches that recognize diverse identities, challenge
normative assumptions, and promote participatory care models. Furthermore, the
study points to the ways in which professional hierarchies and institutional
power relations affect healthcare delivery and workplace equity, revealing the
need for structural reforms to foster fairness and responsiveness. Finally, the
paper suggests future directions for research and practice, including the
development of feminist-informed interventions, longitudinal studies on
gender-sensitive policies, and integration of intersectional approaches in
health program design and training. Overall, the study provides a conceptual
framework for understanding healthcare as a socially and politically embedded
system and offers insights for creating more equitable, inclusive, and just
health practices.
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Pages:46-53
How to cite this article:
Dr. Chaganti Rami Reddy "Feminist perspective on healthcare: A critical analysis of power dynamics". International Journal of Academic Research and Development, Vol 7, Issue 2, 2022, Pages 46-53
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