A men's health expert in the Hunter Valley says it is not surprising so many males are failing to get to the doctors because health services are not designed for men.

It is International Men's Day today and events have been planned across the country, with a breakfast held in Maitland this morning.

Men's health coordinator with Hunter New England Health, Ken Mckenzie, said it is a good opportunity for men to evaluate their priorities.

He said there are not enough men seeking medical advice but it is easy to see why.

"The health services are not designed for men," he said.

"During business hours when men work, there are very few reach out services, very few after hours clinics.

"Is it any wonder that men tend to think that work's more important?"

International Men's Day is being hailed as an opportunity to focus on men's and boy's health, improving gender relations and promoting gender equality.

Mr Mckenzie said it is important service providers tackle the issue.

"To get people to change their thinking, to open their mind," he said.

"Actually target men and think about the needs of men as a specific customer base which a lot of people or services don't tend to do."