A new report has been published by Healthwatch Camden that shines a light on the improvements that need to be made for those living with endometriosis in Camden. Whilst this report is for Camden specifically, we hope this will empower other Councils and Integrated Care Boards across the country to call for similar changes that would help improve the lives of those with endometriosis across the UK.
The report highlights the many challenges those with endometriosis face and what changes are needed within the NHS and in wider society to improve care. The recommendations in the report will soon be presented to the MPs for Camden, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is also the local MP for Holborn and St Pancras. Asking Camden Council and the North Central London Integrated Care Board to take on these measures is a landmark step towards endometriosis being given the recognition it demands and its patients the care and support they deserve.
Commenting on the report, Endometriosis UK said: “We welcome this report from Healthwatch Camden which highlights the often devastating impact endometriosis can have on all aspects of someone’s life, and the stark inequalities often faced by marginalised communities. Endometriosis UK has long been calling for the recommendations included within the report, including the need for care pathways, holistic and medical management supporting mental as well as physical health, and improving education and awareness amongst healthcare practitioners. Implementing these recommendations would help improve awareness, education and access to treatment for those with the disease in Camden, and help address the postcode lottery in accessing the right care at the right time.
We particularly welcome steps to work with local education authorities to improve menstrual health education in the area. Whilst menstrual health education is compulsory in the RSHE curriculum, and comprehensive guidance on teaching RSHE was published in 2019, it is not being implemented in all areas of the country. Implementing this would help empower future generations, providing the understanding and language needed to effectively seek help.
With gynaecology waiting times at crisis point, and diagnosis for the disease taking on average 8 years and 10 months in the UK, the time has never been more urgent for action. We are encouraged to see Healthwatch Camden calling for action to help buck this trend and hope other Boroughs follow their lead in making endometriosis the priority it needs to be”
