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A dedicated plan around women's health must be a priority for the Health Minister as gynaecology waiting lists continue to rise, Sinn Féin MLA Liz Kimmins has said.
The Newry and Armagh MLA said the ongoing long delays in diagnosis and lack of specialist care for women and girls living with endometriosis is unacceptable, adding that gynaecology waiting lists have seen an increase of 18% in 12 months.
Liz Kimmins said: "Last September a Sinn Féin motion calling on improved endometriosis care was passed in the Assembly but since then it is clear the situation has continued to deteriorate. For women and girls, endometriosis causes severe pain and affects every part of their lives."
The MLA continued: "The news today that some women have to wait years for surgery while suffering from this debilitating pain is heartbreaking but sadly not surprising while gynaecology waiting lists have seen an increase of 18% in 12 months."
She said the Health Minister needs to urgently explore the establishment of specialist services, with clear targets for diagnosis and treatment. Ms Kimmins added: "For too long, women have been left behind. They can no longer be failed. There must be no more delay, but urgent action to deliver better outcomes for women."
