Concern over failure to fully staff Cork women’s health centre

Fewer than a quarter of posts in a Cork centre for endometriosis patients have been filled, as a senator has said it was “disingenuous” of the government to officially open the facility without the staff it needed.

Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows outside of it, a condition which affects approximately one in 10 women globally.

A specialist services model of care ensures treatment through two supra-regional centres in Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, and Cork University Maternity Hospital.

The Cork centre, located at the Lee Clinic and operated by CUMH, has 12.6 funded whole-time equivalent staff positions.

However, figures provided to Labour TD Marie Sherlock show that just three of these, or less than 24%, have been filled.

Nationally, 24.6 of 50.2 positions have been filled, meaning the rate of vacancy in Cork is almost double the national average.

Opened

The new Cork facility dedicated to treatment of the condition was officially opened by health minister Jennifer Carroll-MacNeill in April.

“It was disingenuous from the Government to make a song and dance out of the new hub being opened in Cork before it even had adequate staffing levels to provide the service,” Cork senator Laura Harmon said.

“Women are being let down in terms of their healthcare and endometriosis treatment.

“The minister for health must act to ensure that the staffing levels are in place to deliver this service in Cork for women who need it. Too many women are suffering in silence when it comes to endometriosis and it’s vital that they can access the healthcare they need at the endometriosis hub in Cork.”

Her party colleague, councillor Ciara O’Connor said: “I have many friends and met women across the constituency affected by endometriosis, I am deeply concerned about the impact this condition has on women in Ireland.

“It is estimated that between 100,000 and 150,000 women and girls are living with endometriosis here, yet many face long delays —sometimes over eight years — before receiving a proper diagnosis.

“I’ve heard from friends who have had to travel to the UK for treatment, highlighting the gaps in our healthcare services.

“Endometriosis is not just about pain; it can severely affect a woman’s fertility, daily life, and mental health. It is a debilitating condition that demands our urgent attention and action to ensure women receive the support and care they deserve.”

Further engagement

A spokesperson for the department of health said that the HSE’s National Women and Infants Health Programme has led on the development of the National Endometriosis Framework, in conjunction with stakeholders including the Irish Council for General Practitioners and the Endometriosis Association of Ireland.

“The publication of the Framework is pending further engagement between the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO).

“Most women experiencing signs and symptoms of endometriosis present to their local GP. GPs may refer women with suspected endometriosis to general gynaecology services in their local hospital. Moderate and severe cases of endometriosis may require referral into specialist services. Services are expanding as recruitment continues with funding provided this year.”