More than 12,000 women and girls have already shared their experiences of pain and its management through the Victorian government’s Inquiry into Women’s Pain, but healthcare professionals are still hoping for more submissions as the survey deadline draws near.
The inquiry, which intends to inform future government policy on care and service delivery for girls and women experiencing pain, will accept submissions until Wednesday, July 31.
Victorian women and girls can participate by making a written submission or completing an online survey.
Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West chief executive Jodie Hill said the amount of feedback so far highlighted the importance of addressing common and often-overlooked issues regarding women’s healthcare.
“The huge number of submissions demonstrates an urgent need to address women’s pain,” Ms Hill said.
“At all stages of life, women are at greater risk of ill health than men. Globally a higher proportion of women and girls experience chronic pain, however they don’t always get the treatment they need,” said Ms Hill.
“We look forward to seeing the results of the Inquiry and, importantly, the steps the government will take in response to what they are hearing from women.
“In the meantime, while the Inquiry is still open, we encourage women to make their voice heard by making a submission.”
Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas, who announced the high number of responses last week, said women’s pain had been overlooked, misdiagnosed and dismissed for too long.
“We’ve heard from thousands of women who have told us about not being heard, being misdiagnosed and having their conditions downplayed,” she said.
“But we know there are so many more women and girls who’s stories we have not heard so I encourage you to fill out this survey.”
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the Allen government was looking to transform the women’s health system in Victoria.
“This is an extraordinary response from women and girls across Victoria who have generously lent their voices and experiences to help shape a health system that truly understands their pain,” Ms Marchant said.
Visit health.vic.gov.au/inquiry-into-womens-pain to participate or for more information.
