Endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics are now available nationwide

Endo sufferers, you are seen and heard

Endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics are now available nationwide. Image: iStock

Hallelujah! The Government is delivering Australia’s first Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics in every state and territory to provide expert services and care for women suffering with endometriosis and pelvic pain.

Endometriosis is one of the most painful and debilitating conditions a woman can have, and the government is finally recognising it through the delivery of the country's first purpose-built Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics. 

Over 20 new Clinics will provide expert, multidisciplinary services and care for endo sufferers in a mix of both regional and metropolitan locations spanning all states and territories. 

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Endometriosis affects at least one in every nine Australian women and can have a wide-ranging, devastating impact on sufferers' daily lives. Those suffering at present have to wait an average of seven years for a diagnosis.

Instead, these new clinics will work within existing general practises strengthening what is often the first point of contact in the health system, reducing diagnostic delays and promoting early access to multidisciplinary intervention, care, and treatment.

The clinics are part of the Albanese Government's $58.3 million endometriosis and pelvic pain package announced in the 2022-23 Budget.

Over a four-year period, each Clinic will receive more than $700,000 to support the hiring of specialised staff, such as nurse practitioners and allied health professionals, investment in equipment or fit-outs, such as pelvic physiotherapy areas, as well as resources, training, and development.

Endo sufferers will now have access to specialised care. Image: iStock

Ged Kearney MP, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, expresses how significant this event is for endometriosis patients, “The recognition of endometriosis and pelvic pain as serious conditions has been a long and hard-fought battle from fierce advocates in the sector and in our communities."

Furthermore, how critical treatment and management of these symptoms are, adding sufferers “Deserve to have their concerns be taken seriously with better access to specialised care."

Pelvic pain is challenging and severe for both the individual and the community. The annual cost of endometriosis in Australia is estimated to be $6 billion. Patients will be able to access the clinics by scheduling an appointment at one of the 20 attached clinics listed here.

Originally published as Endometriosis and pelvic pain clinics are now available nationwide