Mayo TD says endometriosis framework is more aspirational than actionable

Mayo Aontú TD Paul Lawless has welcomed the publication of the National Endometriosis Framework as an important step in recognising the thousands of women who have suffered in silence for years.

He acknowledged the incredible work of Endometriosis Ireland, while highlighting that much of the document is aspirational and lacking actionable measures.

“This framework is a long-overdue acknowledgement that women have been invisible in our health system for far too long, but we need to see real, actionable measures that ensures this recognition leads to better diagnosis, treatment and care.”

Deputy Lawless highlighted that while the acceptance of presumptive diagnosis is extremely positive, the capacity for treatment remains far too low.

“The framework allows for a capacity of 1200 surgeries a year, but we have an estimated 30,000 women waiting for surgery. At that rate it would take around 25 years for those women to receive treatment.

"The framework does allow for treatment abroad to be covered, but we’re concerned about what the continuum of care will look like for women who return home after surgery.

“There needs to be a complete awareness and education campaign for GPs because we have a situation where the patient is becoming more knowledgeable of the condition than their doctor.

"We have mandatory paediatrics’ rotation so why can’t we implement mandatory obstetrics and gynaecology training? Endometriosis is not a rare condition, as it impacts around 1 in 7 women in Ireland. Our doctors need to have the training and tools to manage it.”

Deputy Lawless concluded by calling for collaboration on Framework 2.0.

“This can’t become another political football. We need collaboration with the government, clinicians and patient advocates to deliver the care women deserve.

“The recognition is great but now we need to start on Framework 2.0. The momentum is building so let's implement clear targets and the funding to deliver them.”