UK non-cancer gynaecology waiting lists have now grown to more than 750,000, according to a new report from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG).
The lists are now a third bigger than in 2021 - and we know that many of those will be women and those assigned female at birth with diagnosed or suspected endometriosis.
RCOG's report emphasises that the impact of long waiting lists can include worsening mental health, or making it harder to take part in daily activities, including work.
Dr Ranee Thakar, President of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, says:
“A way forward is urgently needed to tackle the UK gynaecology crisis. Our new report shows too many women are waiting too long with serious conditions that can devastate their lives. NHS staff are also deeply concerned and distressed that they do not have the necessary resources to deliver good care, affecting their own wellbeing.
“UK governments must act now. The RCOG is calling on them to commit to long-term, sustained funding to address the systemic issues driving waiting lists, alongside delivering an urgent support package for those currently on waiting lists. This investment will not only benefit thousands of individual women but the wider economy too, because the evidence shows that healthy women are the cornerstone of healthy societies. Get it right for women and everyone benefits.”
Endometriosis UK says:
“These new figures underline the urgent need for the Government to commit to reducing gynaecology waiting times - in line with the commitment made in the Autumn Budget to ensure patients wait no longer than 18 weeks from their referral to getting treatment - and to ensure that the estimated 1.5m in the UK with endometriosis are given due priority.
"Menstrual health must be prioritised by the new government if those with endometriosis are to access the treatment they need to help manage their symptoms. Without diagnosis and treatment, not only can the disease worsen, but it can have a huge impact on all aspects of someone’s life - including physical and mental health, education and career. Without a firm commitment from government, those with endometriosis will continue to face unacceptable delays, during which their disease may progress.
“We will continue to work with governments across the UK to cut down waiting times and ensure those with endometriosis have access to the right care at the right time. Investing in the capacity needed to make this happen this will not only reduce suffering for those with endometriosis, but will also save the NHS time and resources, as well as benefiting the wider economy as those impacted are better able to participate in the job market.”
Last week, Endometriosis UK outlined how it will respond to the UK Government's public consultation for a new 10-year NHS plan. Click here to find out how to respond, and urge decision makers to provide better care and shorter waits for those with endometriosis.
