Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 2 February 2023
415. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health the steps being taken by the HSE to highlight the condition of endometriosis and its impact on teenage girls; if he will outline the available treatment pathways for teenage girls; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5449/23]
View answerA Women's Health Taskforce was established by the Department of Health in 2019, to improve women’s health outcomes and experiences of healthcare. A number of initial priority areas for action were determined by the Taskforce, with the issue of endometriosis recognised and included as part of a priority workstream on improving gynaecological health for women and girls.
As part of its role in overseeing the development of gynaecology services, the HSE’s National Women & Infants Health Programme is progressing the development of a National Framework for Endometriosis Care in Ireland in collaboration with the Irish College of General Practitioners. This Framework will identify how care for women in this area needs to be delivered, with this care spanning primary care to local hospital care to specialist complex care.
As the question also relates to service matters, I have asked the HSE to respond to the Deputy directly, as soon as possible.
