On Wednesday 24 March, as part of Endometriosis Awareness Month, FTWW joined forces with Endometriosis UK and Fertility Network UK to host ‘Improving Endometriosis Care in Wales: A Panel Discussion’.

FTWW members Anna Cooper and Gemma Doherty shared their powerful stories as patient representatives. They were joined on the panel by Mr Richard Penketh and Liz Bruen, key members of Cardiff’s specialist endometriosis team, Professor Jason Kasraie, Head of Fertility Services at Shrewsbury and Telford, Dr Anne Connolly, the Royal College of GPs’ Women’s Health Champion, and Senedd Member, Jenny Rathbone, Chair of the Women’s Health Cross Party Group.

There was lots of positive discussion about projects in the pipeline to improve both patients’ experiences and healthcare professionals’ knowledge and access to treatment pathways, however a number of the panellists also discussed sources of frustration, including funding issues, problems in accessing treatment pathways across health board and national borders, and the impact of Covid on waiting lists.

Moving forward; Richard Penketh and the Welsh Government’s Head of Women’s Health have both committed to responding to questions in writing, which we will share as soon as we can.

In the meantime, if you missed the event, you’ll be pleased to know it was recorded. FTWW will also be writing a comprehensive report about the event and topics covered – keep an eye on our social media channels for updates!