SCOTLAND — John Swinney removed the dedicated women's health minister post in a 2025 post-election cabinet reshuffle. Maree Todd assumed responsibility under the public health portfolio, taking over from Jenni Minto.
Thirty-five organizations, including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and the Royal College of Midwives, sent a joint letter to Swinney. The dedicated portfolio was established in 2021.
Alison Wright, president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said, "Women in Scotland experience poorer health outcomes than men for a range of major conditions. We need accountability at every level to close this gap and deliver better for women. This decision by the Scottish Government sends the wrong message." Sinead Cook, chair of the College of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare Scotland Committee, stated, "Scotland could now fall behind other UK nations."
Catherine Murphy, executive director of Engender, said, "The health inequalities that women in Scotland face run deep and have solidified over decades. Historic underfunding has left major gaps in research and expertise, and widespread bias in healthcare delivery." Backbench MSPs scheduled a question for the upcoming First Minister's Questions session.
Waiting times for gynaecological care in Scotland increased by more than 250% between 2018 and 2025. Figures published in September 2025 showed that over 40,500 women waited longer than the 12-week target. Women waiting over 12 weeks accounted for 61% of the total.
A Scottish Government Spokesperson said, "Minister for Public Health Maree Todd has Ministerial responsibility for women's health, assuming responsibility from Jenni Minto who was previously Public Health and Women's Health Minister. Ms Todd is excited about taking forward the Women's Health Plan and delivering on this vital issue."