Women’s Health Victoria welcomes last week’s funding announcement by the Federal and Victorian governments to support former patients of Simon Gordon.
With this funding, Women’s Health Victoria will continue to operate the endometriosis and pelvic pain surgery concerns phone line and will also be providing referrals to new services that are opening soon.
Women’s Health Victoria Chief Executive Officer, Sally Hasler, said in the first month of the endometriosis and pelvic pain surgery concerns line, trained staff had taken more than 100 calls from people seeking information, help following gynaecological surgeries, and navigation to appropriate pathways and support services.
“When we asked about how the situation has affected their mental health, more than 95 per cent of callers have told us about negative impacts on their mental health as a result of their experiences.” Ms Hasler said.
“Callers also share that their day-to-day life is much harder, their financial situation is worse, their relationships have suffered and they are having a harder time working, studying and caring for others.
“When we ask them what they need, they want access to clinical services and counselling, and more than a third of callers want to see regulatory reform to prevent this kind of situation happening again.
“The $9.45 million package of joint government investment is an important immediate response to support the women affected by the alleged actions of former doctor Simon Gordon.
“We look forward to helping people access the care they need,” she said.
Included in the package will be endometriosis support services at five women’s health clinics including Barwon Health, Monash Health, Eastern Health, Western Health and the Royal Women’s Hospital where patients can have a specialist review with a gynaecologist.
From later in April, Women’s Health Victoria can provide referrals for appointments via the endometriosis and pelvic pain surgery concerns line.
“We will provide updates on referral pathways via our website and social media channels,” Ms Hasler said.
Carolyn Mogharbel, Women’s Health Victoria’s Manager of the endometriosis and pelvic pain surgery concerns line, encouraged people to call and speak with trained staff to get the information they need.
“Callers to the service are looking for a variety of things. From information about accessing health records or complaints processes and finding a health service, to telling their story or sharing the impacts of their experiences, we are ready to help,” Ms Mogharbel said.
“We are hearing from people who have experienced surgeries, worry and pain – some for decades, and some only recently. All of our callers are looking for non-judgemental, clear, compassionate support and information about their options.
“We want to reassure people that they are not alone and we can assist with a referral to the new services at the five designated women’s health clinics,” she said.
The endometriosis and pelvic pain surgery concerns line is open from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).
The endometriosis and pelvic pain surgery concerns line phone number is 9664 9330.
