PWHR Supports Bill S-243

PWHR Supports Bill S-243: Advancing a National Framework for Women’s Health in Canada

The Partnership for Women’s Health Research Canada (PWHR) welcomes the introduction of Bill S-243 in the Senate of Canada by Senator Henkel. Bill S-243 is an important step toward establishing a National Framework for Women’s Health. This proposed legislation provides a pathway forward toward coordinated, system-level action to address long-standing gaps in women’s health research, policy and care across Canada.

Bill S-243 reflects years of advocacy, collaboration, and leadership by women’s health organizations, researchers, and community partners who have called for a comprehensive, equity-informed approach to women’s health. PWHR is proud to support this work alongside partners including Women’s Health Collective Canada, Women’s Health Coalition Canada, Femtech Canada, and many others as national momentum continues to build.

What is Bill S-243?

Bill S-243 proposes the development of a National Framework for Women’s Health, a coordinated plan to improve how women’s health is addressed across Canada. While women make up more than half of the population, their health needs have historically been under-researched, underfunded, and inconsistently addressed across the health system.

If passed, Bill S-243 would require the federal government to work with provinces and territories, Indigenous partners, researchers, clinicians, and community organizations to:

• Identify key gaps and priorities in women’s health
• Improve coordination across health systems and research efforts
• Strengthen data collection and research focused on women’s health
• Promote equitable access to care that reflects the diverse experiences of women in Canada

Why This Matters

A national framework for women’s health would help align research, policy, and health system priorities across jurisdictions, while supporting more consistent and equitable approaches to care. For PWHR, this aligns directly with our mission to strengthen women’s health research and ensure that evidence meaningfully informs policy and practice.

What can I do to learn more and support Bill S-243?

Contact senators in your province by January 20, 2026. Let your senator and MP know this matters. Learn more at  Building a Stronger Future for Women’s Health in Canada.

The Partnership for Women’s Health Research Canada uses the term women to refer to all people who identify as women. We use trans and non-binary as umbrella terms to refer to people with a wide range of gender identities that are different from the gender they were assigned at birth.
This is a living document and we welcome feedback. For more information or to provide input, please contact communications@pwhr.org