University of Twente Pioneers Women's Health Program with Technological Focus
Twente, Friday, 7 March 2025.
The University of Twente launches the first Dutch minor on women’s health, aiming to bridge gender gaps in healthcare with innovative technology solutions.
Groundbreaking Initiative in Medical Education
The University of Twente is set to launch ‘Technology for Women’s Health in a Life Span Perspective,’ marking a significant milestone as the Netherlands’ first academic program dedicated to women’s health and technology [1]. The program, coordinated by Christina Bode, will leverage the university’s extensive research in health technologies specifically designed for women’s care [1]. This innovative minor program arrives at a crucial time, addressing the historical bias in healthcare design that has predominantly focused on male physiology [1].
Comprehensive Curriculum Design
Over a ten-week period, students will engage in data analysis focused on identifying health disparities and developing diversity-sensitive technological solutions [1]. A key component of the program includes practical experience through collaboration with the Endometriosis Foundation and the Dutch Endometriosis Clinic [1]. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of various factors including social background, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, and cultural beliefs in healthcare innovation [1].
Alignment with National Healthcare Strategy
The program’s launch aligns strategically with the Dutch government’s recent adoption of a National Strategy for Women’s Health, demonstrating a coordinated effort to address gender-specific healthcare needs [1]. The initiative represents a broader institutional commitment to developing technological solutions that consider the unique health challenges women face throughout different life stages [1]. Based at the University of Twente’s campus in Enschede [3], the program will contribute to the university’s growing portfolio of healthcare innovation initiatives.