Navigating the healthcare system can be a daunting task, especially when dealing with chronic conditions that often require immediate attention. The recent controversy surrounding a Canberra Health Services (CHS) social media video has brought to light the challenges faced by individuals with conditions such as endometriosis and arthritis. The video, which has since been removed, suggested that these conditions were not considered emergencies, sparking outrage and concern among patients and advocacy groups.

The video titled 'Stop! Is it an emergency?' aimed to educate the public on the workings of emergency departments, emphasizing that not all visits necessitate hospital admission. However, the message was not well received when the video stated that 'life and limb-threatening situations' were prioritized and that conditions like endometriosis and arthritis, discovered incidentally during an emergency department visit, were not treated there but referred back to a GP.

This messaging struck a nerve with many, including Jess McGowan, the Canberra community lead for the endometriosis support group QENDO, who felt the video was 'angry' and 'disappointing.' Another woman, Jade, who suffers from endometriosis, shared her harrowing experience of refraining from seeking emergency care during a severe flare-up due to the video's implications. Her symptoms included dizziness, vomiting, and collapsing from pain, yet she felt deterred from visiting the emergency department.

Health concerns should always be looked at with utmost priority. Image Credit: Pexels/Antoni Shkraba

The backlash was swift and clear, with CHS acknowledging that the video was 'not well executed and open to misinterpretation.' They apologized for any confusion or distress caused and have since agreed to meet with representatives from QENDO to discuss the concerns raised.

The incident highlights a broader issue within the healthcare system – the minimization of pain and suffering associated with chronic conditions. Many individuals with endometriosis and arthritis have faced their pain being dismissed or not taken seriously by healthcare professionals. This can lead to a reluctance to seek help in emergency situations, potentially endangering the patient's health.

CHS's response to the outcry includes the establishment of a pelvic pain pathway in emergency departments to ensure consistent, evidence-based care for those presenting with pelvic pain. This is a step in the right direction, but as Ms. McGowan points out, there is a need for better education and understanding among healthcare staff regarding the severity and emergency nature of conditions like endometriosis.

For our readers, especially those living with chronic conditions, it's crucial to understand that you have the right to seek emergency care when experiencing acute pain or symptoms. It's also important to advocate for yourself and communicate the severity of your condition to healthcare providers. If you feel your pain is being minimized or not adequately addressed, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or escalate your concerns.

The upcoming meeting between CHS and QENDO represents an opportunity for meaningful dialogue and change. It's an occasion to bridge the gap between patient experiences and healthcare provider perceptions, ensuring that all individuals receive the care and attention they deserve.

Key Takeaways

• Canberra Health Services posted a video implying conditions like endometriosis and arthritis were not emergencies, causing public backlash.
• The video was removed after being criticized for being poorly executed and open to misinterpretation.
• CHS has apologised for any confusion or distress caused by the video and will meet with representatives from an endometriosis support group.
• CHS acknowledged the need for improved understanding of conditions like endometriosis within the health system and has established a pelvic pain pathway in emergency departments.

We at the Seniors Discount Club encourage our members to share their experiences with chronic conditions and emergency care. Have you ever felt dismissed by healthcare professionals? How do you ensure your voice is heard when seeking treatment? Your stories and insights can help others navigate similar challenges and advocate for better healthcare practices. Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Tetavo]

I have chronic back pain with associated arthritis and went my local emergency department in acute pain. After 30 years of managing the pain I found my self in need of emergency intervention. After 12 hours of being left in a cubical with no call bell and not even a drink of water. Trying to get a nurse to assist my failed until I had to yell that I needed to go to the bathroom and was wetting myself. I signed myself out and refuse to go to an emergency department again! However my daughter who is an RN at the same emergency department told me to say I fell off the roof or some such story and never admit to chronic pain. The policy is to ignore you until you leave!

Chronic pain can become acute and yes it can be a medical emergency.

 

[mOiOz]

I have chronic back pain with associated arthritis and went my local emergency department in acute pain. After 30 years of managing the pain I found my self in need of emergency intervention. After 12 hours of being left in a cubical with no call bell and not even a drink of water. Trying to get a nurse to assist my failed until I had to yell that I needed to go to the bathroom and was wetting myself. I signed myself out and refuse to go to an emergency department again! However my daughter who is an RN at the same emergency department told me to say I fell off the roof or some such story and never admit to chronic pain. The policy is to ignore you until you leave!

Chronic pain can become acute and yes it can be a medical emergency.

TOUCHE!!!! The same goes with Fibromyalgia, nurses insist on using the pump blood pressure machines...! I have often ended up crying with pain while one is being pumped up on my arm and as if that's not enough, they scold you for moving and not getting a reading.
There are plenty of new modern blood pressure machines at the hospital, that do not use the pumps.... why can't they use them when needed?

 

[Dynamo]

I cannot speak for arthritis but I endured so much dismissive behaviour as an endometriosis patient. Surgery to remove most of it and appropriate treatment was such a relief. A kind and understanding obstetrition finally realized the extent of my health problem. He was also a visiting surgeon and operated to restore quality of life for me. I will never forget him.



Cs

 

[mOiOz]

Nowadays in hospitals, if you have anything wrong with you that is not palliative... the attitude is... "You're not dying, don't waste our time and live with it!"

 

[what]

Nowadays in hospitals, if you have anything wrong with you that is not palliative... the attitude is... "You're not dying, don't waste our time and live with it!"

Unless you are a MAN they are believed. Apparently Men in pain is serious, they never get yelled at and get treated first - even if it's only an ingrown toe nail. Women cop it badly from Doctors and Nurses.

 

[Cyberchook]

TOUCHE!!!! The same goes with Fibromyalgia, nurses insist on using the pump blood pressure machines...! I have often ended up crying with pain while one is being pumped up on my arm and as if that's not enough, they scold me for moving and not getting a reading.
There are plenty of new modern blood pressure machines at the hospital, that do not use the pumps.... why can't they use them when needed?

My GP has one that the severe pinching of looser aged skin as well as the pressure hurts so much my BP rises along with my yelping. These torture BP pumps are built for all-sized adult arms and plumper ones suffer the worst. I have experienced many decent tolerable pumps usually at hospitals, but not at my GP. She had her old one that was kinder replaced by this new monster. Scary stuff!