Women's Health Hub aims to reduce wait lists for gynaecology
For many women across east London, getting access to healthcare can be difficult.
In response, the Tower Hamlet’s Women’s Health Hub was set up in December 2023 with the aim of reducing wait lists for gynaecology care.
Based within Mile End Hospital, the hub is staffed by gynaecologists, sexual and reproductive health doctors, GPs, a women’s health physiotherapist, a nursing associate and other professionals.
Together, the team can provide help and guidance for GPs at a primary care level, help patients find the right hospital-based treatment or treat the patient at the hub themselves.
Patients are directed to the right service with 90% of medical appointments being first or new appointments because the hub is able to assess and provide a full intervention in a single appointment, including any procedures.
One patient who has benefitted from the service is 49-year-old Kate who said the hub has helped improve her health.
“Getting validation for how I was feeling and what I was struggling with, was enormous ,” she said.
“I spent years feeling frustrated and like I was getting no-where but now I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.”
Since the hub was set up, the team can respond to referrals quickly with 95% of patients seen within 48 hours and 100% within five days. There has also been 100% positive feedback from patients and GPs.
Dr Ishi Bains, the co-clinical lead for the Tower Hamlets Women’s Health Hub and GP, added: “The aim of the hub is to break down barriers between all stakeholders to work as one tea m to provide the service of care our patients want and need. This can help reduce wait lists for gynaecology care, ensuring patients are seen in the right place at the right time .”
The Women’s Health Hub was recently featured on BBC News Northern Ireland as proof that the model can be used elsewhere.