Menopause will be among the priorities for the new NHS online hospital when it launches next year.
The NHS has selected nine common conditions which will be the first to be treated by the NHS Online service, providing faster access to specialist care. Women’s health issues including severe menopause symptoms and menstrual problems that can be a sign of endometriosis or fibroids will be among the conditions available for online referrals.
Patients will have the option of using NHS Online when their GP makes a referral for specialist care. Instead of having a physical site, patients will be able to receive care from doctors around the country directly through the NHS App – without leaving their home or having to wait longer for an in-person appointment.
Professor Janice Rymer, BMS Chair, and Kathy Abernethy, BMS Trustee, members of the advisory group consulted by the NHS to develop this service, said:
“Any steps to improve access to high quality menopause care are to be welcomed. The option for referral to a specialist menopause healthcare professional at the new NHS Online Hospital means more individuals will be able to access the help that they need, without the long waiting times we currently see in some services.”
Read the full announcement on the NHS England website.