Just 120 queries so far for Government-funded endometriosis surgery abroad

Endometriosis is estimated to affect between one in seven and one in 10 girls and women in Ireland. 

A Government-funded surgery abroad scheme for endometriosis has only seen 120 queries since October.

However, more than 30 have been approved for travel.

In addition, another 39 women have finished applications to travel through the scheme in cooperation with the EU cross-border health directive office.

Endometriosis is estimated to affect between one in seven and one in 10 girls and women in Ireland. 

Around the world, including Ireland, it can take up to nine years to get a diagnosis.

Concern has been growing about how long it takes to access care, and the scheme was launched last year as an interim measure while services are being expanded under the HSE.

The Endometriosis Surgery Abroad Interim Scheme (ESAIS) has now “engaged with” over 120 women asking about care in Ireland and abroad, a HSE spokeswoman said.

Some 30 applicants have been approved to travel abroad for surgery, with two further applications currently in progress, with patients expected to travel over the coming weeks, she said.

The EU cross-border scheme also remains open to endometriosis patients with applications processed without delay, she added.

“There have been 39 completed ESAIS applications in close collaboration with the Cross Border Directive office,” she said.

She could not state which clinics in other countries were involved, in order to protect patients’ privacy. 

She said most of the women have travelled to centres in England and France so far.

Advocates, including the national charity Endo Ireland, as well as members of Her Voice Project, have called for changes to the list of approved clinics linked to the new scheme.

Questions have also been raised about why the scheme requires a consultant’s referral rather than a GP.

This is because many women with endometriosis do not have a consultant or are on long waiting lists to see a consultant.

A Department of Health spokesman said approved clinics were selected based on patient safety and on clinics having recognised accreditation.

“All centres on the list have been accredited by either the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy (BGSL) or the European Endometriosis League (EEL),” he said.

A centre may also be considered under this scheme if it achieves the relevant quality and safety requirements, even if it has not received formal accreditation from BSGE or EEL, he added.

The HSE website has a list of the approved centres, and he said this is updated as new centres are added.

These are selected by a HSE clinical advisory group.

By January, the scheme had received 50 queries during its first three months, the Irish Examiner previously reported.

Meanwhile, earlier this month, Endo Ireland launched a careline support service.

“Whether you’re newly diagnosed, navigating treatment or just need someone to talk to who understands, we’re here for you,” it said.

Women can use a dedicated email address to receive a form back to give the charity an idea of their needs. 

This will be followed up on by phone or email, depending on the situation.

Details are on the Endo Ireland social media accounts and website.