Why Women’s Health Hubs Are a Game-Changer for Northern Ireland
Dame Lesley Regan, England's Women's Health Ambassador, advocates for dedicated women’s health hubs in Northern Ireland, following their successful rollout across England. These hubs, part of the Women’s Health Strategy launched in 2022, offer one-stop access to essential services such as gynecology and menopause care.
“When you get it right for women, everybody else benefits,” Dame Lesley emphasized, highlighting the societal ripple effect of prioritizing women’s health.
Benefits of Women's Health Hubs
Faster Diagnosis and Treatment
Patients can access multiple services under one roof, streamlining care. For example, at the Tower Hamlets hub, women can receive scans and biopsies on the same day, with results available within 12 hours.Reduced Hospital Admissions
By addressing issues early, hubs help prevent severe conditions, cutting down hospital visits. Consultant Rehan Khan noted that fewer women are now referred to hospitals, with a greater focus on community-based care.Economic Impact
A 2024 report shows that investing in women's health could yield substantial economic returns. Conditions like endometriosis and menopause-related symptoms cost the UK economy billions in lost productivity. Investing £1 per woman in gynecological services could generate a £319 million return annually.Empowering Women
Women like Kate Minns, who received timely menopause care, regained control over their health and lives:“It gave me my health back, which is everything.”
Challenges and Solutions
Funding and Staffing
Dr. Sandra McNeill argues that realigning existing resources can fund these hubs without additional costs. Training healthcare professionals in advance ensures smooth operations.Addressing Long Wait Times
Northern Ireland’s current wait times for gynecological services are the worst in the UK. Dr. Janet Barter stressed the urgency:“It must be very distressing for the women who have to wait.”
Next Steps
The Department of Health is developing a Women’s Health Action Plan to improve services by 2025, focusing on enhancing gynecology and early pregnancy care within existing resources.
Women’s health hubs offer a cost-effective, life-changing solution that benefits not only women but society as a whole. As Dame Lesley Regan asserts, Northern Ireland cannot afford to be without them.