Women disproportionately manage household ‘healthkeeping’ labor

The concept of ‘healthkeeping’—the mental, physical, and emotional labor required to manage household healthcare—is increasingly falling on women. This invisible project management involves tracking appointments, medications, and vaccinations.

Research from Zocdoc indicates that three out of four appointments made for others are booked by women. Additionally, 74% of caregivers report being the primary person responsible for medical decisions within their households. This burden is particularly heavy for the ‘sandwich generation’ of Gen X, Millennial, and Gen Z women, who must simultaneously manage the medical needs of young children and aging parents.

Experts, including Megan Ranney of the Yale School of Public Health, note that the logistical friction of healthcare, such as managing insurance approvals and follow-up calls, adds significant time and energy demands to caregivers.