Ghada Hatem-Gantzer: The Visionary Gynaecologist Transforming Care for Victims of Violence
SAINT-DENIS, 02 March 2026 – Dr Ghada Hatem-Gantzer, the French-Lebanese gynaecologist who revolutionised the treatment of female victims of violence, continues to see her “one-stop shop” medical model expand across France. As the nation prepares for International Women’s Day, a new documentary film highlighting her work at the Maison des Femmes is set for theatrical release this week.
A Revolutionary Model for Holistic Care
Born in Beirut in 1959, Dr Hatem-Gantzer moved to Paris in the late 1970s to escape the Lebanese Civil War and pursue her medical studies. After decades of practice as a gynaecologist-obstetrician, she founded La Maison des Femmes (The Women’s House) in Saint-Denis in 2016. The facility was the first of its kind in France, providing a multidisciplinary approach that combines medical care, psychological support, legal advice, and police liaison services under one roof.
The success of the Saint-Denis centre has sparked a national movement. Originally intended as a local initiative in the Seine-Saint-Denis department, the model is now being replicated in cities across France, including Marseille. Dr Hatem-Gantzer recently noted that she “had not imagined for a second” that the project would achieve such widespread success among healthcare professionals.
‘La Maison des Femmes’ Film Release
The doctor’s mission is reaching a broader audience through the medium of cinema. A film titled La Maison des femmes, featuring actress Karin Viard, is scheduled for release in French cinemas on Wednesday, 04 March 2026. The film aims to denounce sexist violence and shine a light on the innovative care provided at the centre.
Speaking on France Inter recently, Dr Hatem-Gantzer emphasised that despite the progress made in public awareness and the expansion of care centres, “the fight is not yet won.” She continues to advocate for systemic changes in how the judicial and medical systems handle cases of sexual violence and incest.
Key Profile: Dr Ghada Hatem-Gantzer
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Ghada Hatem-Gantzer |
| Birth Year | 1959 (Beirut, Lebanon) |
| Specialisation | Gynaecologist-Obstetrician |
| Key Achievement | Founder of La Maison des Femmes (2016) |
| Current Focus | Expansion of holistic care models for victims of violence |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is La Maison des Femmes?
It is a comprehensive care centre founded by Dr Ghada Hatem-Gantzer that provides medical, social, and legal support to women who are victims of violence, female genital mutilation (FGM), or in vulnerable situations.
Where was the first centre established?
The first Maison des Femmes was opened in 2016 in Saint-Denis, a northern suburb of Paris, attached to the Delafontaine Hospital.
Why is Dr Hatem-Gantzer in the news recently?
In addition to the ongoing expansion of her medical model across France, she is currently promoting a new film titled La Maison des femmes, which documents the struggle against sexist violence and the work of her institution.