Endometriosis: Health Services
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of single points of access for non-urgent gynaecology referrals, specialist ultrasound and community diagnostic routes on reducing diagnostic times for suspected endometriosis; and whether he plans to support wider adoption of such models across Integrated Care Boards.
Answered by Karin Smyth
From October 2026, all providers, supported by integrated care boards, are expected to ensure that all appropriate requests and referrals flow through a Single Point of Access (SPoA) model, to support patients to receive rapid specialist assessment and a clear next step. By embedding timely specialist clinical review at the start of the pathway, including for non-urgent gynaecology referrals, the model improves access to the right clinic, diagnostic service, or care setting, the first time.
Patients with suspected or diagnosed endometriosis will benefit from SPoA for gynaecology referrals, alongside wider work through the Renewed Women’s Health Strategy which commits to speeding up diagnosis and access to treatment for conditions including endometriosis.
Clinical pathways for heavy periods and pelvic pain, including endometriosis, will be redesigned to reduce repeat appointments, unnecessary referrals, and long waits. This will support systems to meet local need and enable more appropriate care to be delivered in community settings.
Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →