Endometriosis New Zealand obtains governmental funding
14 AUGUST 2008
Endometriosis New Zealand has received a grant of $25,000 from the New Zealand Ministry of Health for a short term contract to look at how best to raise awareness of endometriosis, and subsequentlly reduce the burden of the condition.
Associate Health Minister, Steve Chadwick, announced
Endometriosis is a significant health issue for some women and is a leading cause of infertility, but some women only find out that they have it when they have trouble getting pregnant. The Ministry of Health has advised me that the best way to reduce the burden of endometriosis is to raise awareness of the condition and consequently reduce delays in diagnosis. It is therefore supporting ENZ to work with the health sector to explore the best approach for the diagnosis, management and referral of endometriosis and to develop an education programme.
- Deborah Bush QSM, Chief Executive, Endometriosis New Zealand
Endometriosis New Zealand Chief Executive, Deborah Bush, responded with her appreciation of this unprecedented support, and has confirmed that the funding will assist with:
- developing an Endometriosis Special Interest Group (ESIG);
- consulting with the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) and the Royal College of General Practitioners; and
- collaboration with ENZ regional support groups to reflect patient voices with an ultimate goal to report back its findings to the Ministry of Health.
Said Deborah Bush:
This preliminary investigation will raise important issues and set the scene for the development of guidelines, guidance or pathways in the treatment and management of endometriosis.
The Auckland contingent of ESIG has already met with resounding success. The meaningful and stimulating debate resulting in positive recommendations, has set the scene for what should result in unprecedented outcomes for women with endometriosis.
