87. Deputy Grace Boland asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken to reduce the average diagnostic delay for endometriosis; the plans to introduce public awareness campaigns and GP training to support earlier intervention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52381/25]

Sentiment score: 0.17

Endometriosis is one of the most common women's health issues. Far too many women, including women among my family and friends, often endure chronic pain, fatigue, fertility issues and emotional distress. They often miss time at work and in education. They miss out on life generally. The average diagnostic delay is nine years. I know this is an area on which the Minister is focused. I would like to hear what she is doing to address the diagnostic delay and to ensure that our healthcare workers are fully trained and that our women are getting the healthcare and surgeries they need in a timely way.

Sentiment score: -0.06

I thank the Minister for that comprehensive update. I mentioned the nine-year average diagnostic delay. Women have felt ghosted by their GPs. They feel like they have not been offered supports and have not been listened to. It seems that women are expected to put up with this intolerable, intense and chronic pain, and are essentially made to feel as if it is all in their heads. It is important that the Minister has taken the step to listen. The patient voice forum was an excellent idea. Women now feel heard by the Minister and the CEO of the HSE. It is important that the HSE continue to listen to these women. In her response, the Minister mentioned that she has written to GPs and there will be a practice update. It is important that existing GPs will be properly trained and will understand. Far too often, women have been told that they have to put up with it, that it is in their heads and is not really happening to them. We have to move away from that outlook.

Sentiment score: 0.08

I thank the Minister. I really appreciate her focus on this and as I said, women are so impressed that they now feel heard having literally been told that it is all in their heads for so long. In terms of public awareness, sometimes women, particularly younger girls and women, do not necessarily know what to be looking out for when they are talking about endometriosis. This is particularly true for teenage girls and it is really important that we see a public awareness campaign as soon as possible. We know from reports in the media that many women have actually taken themselves abroad for treatment, which is an intolerable situation. In that context, I appreciate the work the Minister is doing on looking into options under the treatment abroad scheme. It would be good to hear more from her on those options, as well as when we might see a public awareness campaign detailing the symptoms.

Sentiment score: 0.40