More timely care a relief for endo sufferers

NEWS that Cairns women who suffer from endometriosis will have access to more timely and appropriate care is welcomed. The Northern Queensland Primary Health Network is one of 20 organisations across the country to have received more than $700,000 over four years to deliver the specialised care.

The funding will support NQPHN to hire specialised staff, including nurse practitioners and allied health professionals, and invest in pelvic physio therapy, as well as extra resources, training and development.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition that can be hard to diagnose and is extremely painful.

Statistics show about one in nine women can suffer from it.

Nearly four in five hospitalisations in 2016-17 alone were among females aged between 15-44. That same year there were about 34,200 related hospitalisations.

NQPHN chief executive Robin Whyte said a significant number of women and gender diverse people are suffering from the debilitating condition.

“We know the clinic will help to give women and gender diverse people better overall care and easier access to healthcare professionals from the one location.”

Suffering from a debilitating health condition is difficult for any person. But having to try and navigate a disease such as endometriosis, which for a long time flew under the radar, brings added pressure.

Having a clinic based in Cairns will mean sufferers will have a better chance at receiving the help and support they deserve.

It’s a step in the right direction to helping women who have been forced to suffer in silence.