Endometriosis framework
Deputy Lawless welcomed new endometriosis guidelines but said the national framework was overdue and asked what incentives could bring GPs into the process. The Taoiseach outlined existing women's health measures, specialist centres and said he would ask the Minister to discuss adoption of the guidelines.
I very much welcome the endometriosis clinical guidelines that were published recently. This is a very positive step forward for the thousands of women who suffer with this condition. One in ten women in Ireland is believed to suffer from it. Many of them suffer in silence. The guidelines specifically state that the clinical guidelines should be used in conjunction with the national framework. However, the national framework has yet to be published. It was due to be published last year. From speaking with the representatives, my understanding is that the discussions have yet to commence between the GP organisation and the HSE. We are coming into the summer recess. I seek a commitment from the Taoiseach to progress with the discussions so we can get to a stage where the national framework can be published. From speaking to many GPs across my constituency, there is a significant level of backlog due to many retirements and additional work that has been heaped on them.
Comment on this
What incentives can be provided to GPs to engage with this process?
Comment on this
Significant work has been undertaken in respect of endometriosis. It has been recognised as part of the work of the women's health task force. It was included in the women's health action plan 2024-2025. The previous Minister, Stephen Donnelly, did exceptional work on this issue. Regional hubs have been established in the Rotunda and Coombe hospitals, the National Maternity Hospital, University Hospital Limerick, and University Hospital Galway.
Severe cases can be referred to two supra-regional specialist centres in Dublin and Cork and Tallaght University Hospital in Dublin. They provide multidisciplinary care. The Deputy is talking more about the primary care side in terms of clinical guidelines in conjunction with the national framework.
Comment on this
I will discuss this with the Minister for Health. The Deputy has mentioned the GPs, negotiations and discussions. There can be a number of issues on that agenda but there should be a mechanism by which the clinical guidelines can be adopted, but I will leave that to the Minister to discuss with the various interested bodies and come back to the Deputy on it.