By Mikayla Van Loon
Ringwood East will be home to the first and only endometriosis and pelvic pain in the outer east, catering to women across the Yarra Ranges.
The announcement came from the federal government in late March that 20 clinics would be established Australia-wide as part of the $58.3 million budget promise.
Victoria will have a total of four clinics, with EACH Community Health facilitating the service at its health hub in Ringwood East.
“The fact that the clinic is local removes barriers around commuting into highly congested areas like hospitals or the inner city,” an EACH spokesperson said.
“It will be conveniently located across from Ringwood East station and has ample parking, making it a central location that will improve the care experience for women.”
The service will add to the already offered sexual and reproductive kealth program to ensure women receive the holistic care they need.
It is estimated that roughly 830,000 women are living with the condition around the country, with more perhaps undiagnosed.
“We know that women living with endometriosis experience debilitating symptoms that can be lifelong. This service will provide specialised person-centred care that will ensure women can manage their symptoms and lead full, healthy lives,” EACH chief executive officer Natalie Sullivan said.
While EACH already provided care to women with endometriosis and pelvic pain, having a specified clinic allows them to expand that range even further.
“We had about half a dozen enquiries on the day the government announced this funding, so we anticipate high demand for the service,” the spokesperson said.
The federal government will contribute $700,000 over four years to each of the clinics, to support the hiring of specialised staff, whether it be nurse practitioners and/or allied health professionals.
It will also support the purchasing of equipment or fit-outs such as pelvic physiotherapy areas, as well as resources, training and development.
“This funding acknowledges the devastating effect these conditions can have on women’s lives. Now, women can know they don’t have to suffer alone – support is available.”
Assistant Health and Aged Care Minister Ged Kearney said it had been a long and hard fought battle by activists and women to see real change when it comes to women’s health.
“Too many women suffer for years with what we know can be debilitating conditions. They deserve to have their concerns be taken seriously with better access to specialised care,” Ms Kearney said.
“These clinics are about providing women with an accessible front door to the care that they need.
“Gathering expertise under one roof, fostering that knowledge to improve diagnosis and services, and having referral pathways in place – these are all crucial elements to getting the support that women need right.”
Getting support as soon as possible, Ms Sullivan said was integral to early diagnosis and better outcomes, something this clinic will provide when opened in a few months.
“Early diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis can help manage symptoms and prevent further complications,” she said.
“Our multidisciplinary team includes specialist GPs who work with affected women to develop a personalised treatment plan that can integrate a broader range of support from nurses, physiotherapists, health psychologists and other allied health professionals for pain management.
“Living with a chronic condition can be crippling. However, with the right care and support, women with endometriosis can manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.”
Until the clinic is opened, women experiencing symptoms can still book an assessment by calling 1300 003 224.
