Northern Ireland is investing £1.95 million to expand access to endometriosis care and reduce treatment delays.
Health Minister Robbie Butler announced the funding to support specialist services, improve diagnosis and treatment pathways, and reduce waiting times. Of the total investment, £700,000 will go to the Regional Endometriosis Centres in Belfast and Western Trusts, while £1.25 million will be distributed across the five Health and Social Care Trusts to strengthen local services and implement a new Regional Endometriosis Pathway.
“For too many women, endometriosis can affect every aspect of daily life. Many have experienced long waits for diagnosis and treatment while living with significant pain and uncertainty,” said Butler. “This £1.95 million investment is an important step towards improving access to diagnosis, treatment, and support.”
The investment builds on efforts to improve gynecological care across Northern Ireland. The government reports that outpatient, inpatient, and day-case treatment waiting times have decreased significantly over the past year.
“This investment marks an important milestone in efforts to improve women’s health services across Northern Ireland,” Butler said. “By strengthening specialist and local services, reducing variation and expanding access to modern treatment options, it will help ensure more women receive the care they need, when they need it.”
