Policy scorecard for gender mainstreaming: gender equity in health policy

Objectives: To examine whether gender mainstreaming for women s health is included in national and state health policies. Methods: A policy analysis tool (Policy Scorecard) was developed and then applied to Australia s National Health Priority Areas as well as policies of three Australian States. Results: Despite Australia s leadership in women s health policy, its health policies are largely devoid of gender equity concerns at both national and state levels. Mainstreaming of gender equity outcomes has not yet occurred in Australia. Conclusions: Applying the Policy Scorecard for Gender Mainstreaming to local and country-specific policies is revealing of governments commitment to women, and how well gender equity goals are embedded into policies and programs. Policy analysis using this gender-sensitive Policy Scorecard provides opportunities for advocacy to advance women s health and gender equity at any level of government, in any country.