The Albanese Labor Government is opening a specialised Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain GP Clinic in Bardon in Brisbane, providing women with expert, multidisciplinary care and a one-stop option for diagnosis, intervention, and treatment.
The clinic is part of Labor's $58.3 million package for activities to improve health outcomes for women with endometriosis and pelvic pain, announced in the 2022-23 Budget. There are now 22 clinics across Australia, including at least one in every state and territory.
Endometriosis affects at least 1 in 9 Australian women and can have a devastating impact on the daily lives of those with the condition. Research has also shown that 1 in 2 Australian women experience pelvic pain and half of those women do not discuss their symptoms with a doctor despite significant impacts on work or study.
The Bardon clinic is the fourth clinic in Queensland - with the other clinics in Morayfield, Benowa and Cairns. Each clinic is based in an existing GP practice with experience and expertise in women's health, endometriosis and pain management.
The clinic will be operated by Neighbourhood Medical which will receive $700,000 in funding over four years. The funds will be used to recruit specialised staff, including nurse practitioners and allied health professionals; improve facilities; and provide resources, training and development.
The specialised GP clinics will reduce delays and promote early access to intervention, care and treatment. They will also raise awareness of endometriosis, build professional knowledge and skills to manage the condition, and improve access to information and care pathways.
Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care
Ged Kearney MP:
"Too many women suffer because their pain is not taken seriously. Recognising endometriosis and pelvic pain as serious conditions is part of Labor's commitment to improving women's health.
"The support we are providing for this specialised clinic in Bardon will give women across Brisbane's northwest access to the care and expertise they need, all under one roof."
Quotes attributable to Queensland Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman:
"We know how much an endometriosis diagnosis can impact day-to-day activities for women and by providing a one-stop clinic where they can seek the support and care they need will be a game-changer.
"Improving access to women's healthcare is one of my top priorities and we need to continue to invest in ground-breaking research and initiatives to breakdown the barriers and challenges faced by women."
