Scottish Government Commits to Improving Endometriosis Care Amid "Unacceptable" Waiting Lists

Strategic Insights -

Women's health minister Jenny Minto acknowledged that patients living with endometriosis are facing "pain and discomfort" due to long waiting times for diagnosis, as the Scottish government responds to widespread concerns. The government has emphasized ongoing efforts to improve endometriosis care, including the publication of an Endometriosis Care Pathway for NHS Scotland and educational materials for healthcare professionals. The current average waiting time for a diagnosis in Scotland is 8 years and 10 months, with patients often having to seek private care, which can be financially crippling.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Scottish government has committed to improving endometriosis care, acknowledging that patients are facing "pain and discomfort" due to long waiting times.
  • The average waiting time for a diagnosis in Scotland is 8 years and 10 months.
  • The government has published an Endometriosis Care Pathway for NHS Scotland and provided educational materials for healthcare professionals.
  • Urgent action is being called for to improve healthcare, upskill frontline medical professionals, and provide endometriosis education in schools.
  • The Scottish government's women's health minister, Jenny Minto, has emphasized that timely access to gynaecology services will be a priority in the development of the Women's Health Plan.
  • Over 400 patients shared their experiences with endometriosis via an anonymous survey, highlighting delays in diagnosis, lengthy waiting lists, and crippling costs of private care.

Statistics:

  • Average waiting time for a diagnosis in Scotland: 8 years and 10 months.
  • Number of patients who shared their experiences with endometriosis via an anonymous survey: over 400.
  • Funding for Health and Social Care in the 2025-26 Budget: £21.7 billion.
  • Additional funding to reduce waiting lists and improve flow through hospitals: Almost £200 million.
  • Targeted funding for gynaecology: To be prioritized as a key area for additional funding.

Sources:

  • The Scottish Government's Women's Health Plan (2021)
  • The Scottish Government's Women's Health Plan Final Report (2024)
  • The Scottish Government's open letter to health ministers across the UK (April 2024)
  • Young Scot's Lets Talk Endometriosis campaign
  • NationalWorld's Endo the Battle campaign