By Irishexaminer.com,Manon Gilbart

Copyright irishexaminer

Ms Carroll MacNeill said the HSE, the Department of Health and the clinical community are “working as one” to improve support for endometriosis sufferers.

In a letter seen by the Irish Examiner, Ms MacNeill said that “while we are not fully here yet”, these are “practical steps forward”.

“The HSE will provide me with monthly progress reports to ensure this is delivered equitably across the regions,” said Ms MacNeill.

Recruitment for an additional colorectal surgeon has been advertised by the HSE and will serve to increase capacity for more complex surgical treatments.

Ms MacNeill said the HSE and the clinical community are identifying the short and long-term requirements to build current and future capacity, improve clinical pathways and increase expertise within endometriosis services.

She also said the HSE is reviewing the potential for the Treatment Abroad Scheme and the Cross Border Directive to support women with access to clinically effective treatment abroad, “where appropriate”.

According to the minister, the National Framework for Endometriosis is due to be published shortly.

“To improve education and training, international endometriosis experts will be invited to collaborate and engage with our clinical specialists to improve endometriosis treatment options, build expertise and share learnings. This engagement will include a strong patient partnership input at future conferences and symposiums,” she said.

Under the Women’s Health Taskforce, a group is being established to focus on endometriosis with a “strong inclusion” of the voices of advocates.

Ms MacNeill also said she is writing to all GPs, consultants and others in the clinical community to “raise their awareness of endometriosis in their clinical assessments of women who may have symptoms of endometriosis”.

‘A better service’

Next year, a communications plan will be launched following the publication of the National Framework for Endometriosis, as well as an awareness campaign by the HSE.

In the letter, Ms Carroll MacNeill said: “Together we can change course and take the necessary steps to deliver a better service for endometriosis sufferers. I will keep in touch with further updates on progress and hope to meet with you again to update you in person.”

The move was welcomed by Her Voice Project, an online community which offers support and connection for endometriosis sufferers. However one of the founders, Lisa Walsh said while the commitment to advancing women’s health is welcomed, there is still a “long road” ahead.

“Recognition at this level is vital, and we are encouraged to see women’s lived experiences informing policy and service development. We know there is still a long road ahead before services are where they need to be, and many women continue to face unacceptable delays and difficulties in accessing care.

“However, the progress made to date is an extremely hopeful sign that women’s health is finally being prioritised, and we are determined to keep working alongside all partners to ensure that this momentum leads to lasting, meaningful change,” she said.