Gynecologist Judith Huirne is dedicated to improving women’s health. Her groundbreaking research into women-specific conditions has led to innovative diagnostics and treatments, which have significantly improved the lives of countless women. Moreover, she put the topic of 'women's health' on the map in the Netherlands. For her societal contributions, she received the Amsterdam UMC Societal Impact Award 2024.
The work of Judith Huirne, Professor of Benign Gynecology, has had a significant impact, not only within science but also beyond. Thanks to her efforts, awareness of women’s health in the Netherlands has greatly increased, and her work has been widely covered in the media.
National Women's Health Plan
Huirne states: “Women-specific conditions such as uterine abnormalities and endometriosis are incredibly common and have a disruptive effect on daily functioning, career opportunities, and the employability of women. So it affects all of us.” Huirne’s advocacy led to national attention last year on the seriousness and scope of women’s health issues. Thanks to her work, there has been not only a shift in public opinion but also concrete policy measures, such as millions of euros for research and a national plan for women’s health.
Special Consultation Hour for Female Employees
At Amsterdam UMC, Huirne has also achieved results in improving the health and well-being of female staff. At her initiative, a free consultation hour for staff with gynecological complaints started on January 1, 2025. “With this pilot, we want to lower the threshold for seeking help. And if we can reduce absenteeism from 7% to 6%, that means 120 more women in the workplace at our hospital every day. That will truly have a positive impact,” says Huirne.
Watch the video about Judith Huirne's work:
Societal Impact Award
Scientific research aims to improve society. To encourage and recognize this, Amsterdam UMC highlights researchers who excel in this area with the annual Societal Impact Award. There is an internal jury, and all Amsterdam UMC staff can vote. The external jury this year included representatives from the Patient Federation NL, the media, GGD Amsterdam, and Zorginstituut NL.
The other two nominees were Claudi Bockting, Professor of Clinical Psychology, and Henry de Vries, Professor of Skin Infections. Watch the videos about their research:
Photo: still from video (Dyzlo film)