Here is the plain text result:
When the BBC reported that waiting lists for gynaecology appointments across the UK had more than doubled since February 2020, many women shared their experiences of how they feel forced to turn to private care.
Women waiting in agony for vital gynaecological treatment are turning to the private sector in the hope of being referred urgently to the top of the NHS waiting list.
The experiences of many who spoke to the BBC tie in with what we are hearing from women working in the sector.
The heads of 11 leading women’s health organisations have signed an open letter urging the public and health professionals to participate in their “Change NHS” conversation.
They said: “Women and girls have repeatedly been left to ‘fall through the gaps’ of fragmented government policy.”
Claire, 40, had a hysterectomy – an operation where the womb is removed – 12 weeks ago. The surgery cost Claire more than £10,000 with a private consultant – the same one she is on a three-year waiting list to see through the NHS.
Forty-year-old mother Claire, had a hysterectomy – an operation where the womb is removed – 12 weeks ago. The surgery cost Claire more than £10,000 with a private consultant – the same one she is on a three-year waiting list to see through the NHS.
Bethany used to get into trouble regularly at school for her low attendance record, brought on by period pains that started when she was just 12.
At 20, Bethany was diagnosed with endometriosis and left with a huge decision.
“I was told a hysterectomy was the only option for me,” she says.
Saschan started a blog documenting her experience in women’s health to connect with others who might be in a similar position.
It was in Saschan’s first year of university that the pain in her abdomen began.
Saschan, a consultant in the wellbeing and healthcare industry, noticed she was gaining weight rapidly, leaving her in so much pain that she was missing lectures.
Overall, Saschan has spent around £2,000 on private appointments.
“My mum said to me, if we have to remortgage the house to pay for the surgery, then that’s what we have to do because you can’t put a price on your life.”
Source link
