Endometriosis and pelvic pain clinic announced for Albany only one of two in WA in national roll-out

An Albany medical practice has been has been selected by the Federal Government to run an endometriosis and pelvic pain clinic, as one of only two new dedicated sites across WA. Last Wednesday, the Federal Government announced Pioneer Health Albany would be one of 20 national clinics offering multidisciplinary services and care for women who live with endometriosis and pelvic pain. The only other clinic that has been announced for WA is The Garden Family Medical Clinic in Murdoch. Endometriosis is a chronic disease in which cells that resemble those in the lining of the uterus grow in places outside of the uterus, which can cause pain, fatigue, gastrointestinal symptoms and infertility, and affects at least 1 in 9 Australian women and an unknown number of transgender and non-binary people. Pelvic pain can also be complex and debilitating for sufferers and is estimated to cost the Australian economy $6 billion a year. Endometriosis WA deputy president Akaiti James said the clinic announced for Albany would reduce the time and cost involved for Great Southern patients who usually have to travel to Perth for treatment and lead to better continuity of care. “Endometriosis is a complex disease and symptoms can vary between individuals,” Ms James said. “As there is no cure, treatment involves the management of symptoms that an individual experiences. “This can range from surgery and medications to allied health treatments such as pelvic physiotherapy. “Having a dedicated clinic will ensure that a patient is connected with all services they need in the one location, thus reducing the time and financial burden to the patient. “Another benefit is that...having a multidisciplinary team working in harmony means that patients will be provided with the most correct and up-to-date evidence-based information delivered in a way that is understandable for all levels of health literacy.” Ms James said the organisation would like to see the State Government match the Federal Government’s efforts by increasing funding and resourcing for endometriosis in public hospitals.