Women’s health in the spotlight

On September 7, more than 100 serving women from RAAF Base Amberley gathered at the Astra Complex at an event marking National Women’s Health Week.

CAPTION: Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Rachel Green hosts a women’s health presentation at RAAF Base Amberley. Story by Flying Officer Robert Hodgson. Photo by Leading Aircraftwoman Emma Schwenke.

The event featured a presentation from leading health professional Doctor Rachel Green.

National Women’s Health Week is a nationwide campaign of events and online activities. Women, communities and workplaces were encouraged to get involved by hosting an event, sharing health information and encouraging women to focus on health and wellbeing.

Flight Lieutenant Taryn Elder, from No.1 Expeditionary Health Squadron, was instrumental in ensuring that RAAF Base Amberley held its own event.

It is through her own studies of a Masters subject that she became aware of Dr Green, a well-respected obstetrician and gynaecologist.

“Our lecturer referred us to a number of podcasts where Dr Green was the host,” Flight Lieutenant Elder said.

“After Listening to podcasts highlighted Dr Green’s passion for educating others on women’s health issues, I contacted Dr Green and asked if she would be interested in presenting as part of our Women’s Health Event. She didn’t hesitate to volunteer.”

Flight Lieutenant Elder is also responsible for establishing the Amberley Women’s Health Clinic on base, with the support of the Amberley Health Centre.

The clinic, established in 2020 and staffed by volunteers, aims to seek improvements in the women’s health space and support female members.

Doctor Green’s presentation gave an overview of common women’s health issues from the “the cradle to the grave” and was well received by the attendees.

The presentation was followed by question and answer session and discussion on a range of issues.

“Our female members face unique challenges,” Flight Lieutenant Elder said.

“And good health is powerful.”

Now in its ninth year, National Women’s Health Week continues to gain groundswell nationally. In 2020, despite COVID-19, more than 90,000 women participated in more than 1400 campaign events.

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