While there has been a general deterioration of the healthcare system, maternal and child health care has been impacted the severest. The following policies are directed to the promotion of women in Guyana. Some policies are gender specific while others are general. Poverty Alleviation Program Also targets the social ills of poverty e.g. nutrition. Part of this Program is Gender Conscious Awareness, where women from all the regions of Guyana are exposed to gender issues and leadership skills.
Government is also committed to a program for women in agriculture and agro-related businesses.
Consultation has begun on the setting up of a National Commission on Women. This will be beneficial for women, given their high representation in this area. The year 1995 saw the passing of the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. The Domestic Violence Bill was submitted recently for parliamentary approval. When passed it will be a major breakthrough in protection of women against violence.