A Friday panel discussion in The Growth Distillery’s The Ideas Dome delved into News.com.au’s impactful “About Bloody Time” campaign.
The editorial initiative was dedicated to addressing the significant issue of endometriosis and the inadequate healthcare support women with this condition face in Australia. The campaign brought attention to the silent suffering of many and has become a beacon of change in the way endometriosis is treated and discussed within the medical community and society at large.
The session was hosted by Liz Burke, deputy editor of News.com.au. She was joined on The Ideas Dome stage by News.com.au journalists and editors Lexi Cartwright, Julie Snook, and Kerry Warren. Snook is also an Endometriosis Australia ambassador.
Cartwright and Snook both stepped forward to share their personal battles with endometriosis. Their stories are not just personal; they are testimonies that underscore the broader campaign’s goal. This goal is to raise awareness significantly and to drive a much-needed change in medical consultation policies. Both women articulated the physical pain and emotional distress the condition inflicts, thereby illuminating the need for a more compassionate and educated medical approach.
About Bloody Time impact
The campaign has garnered substantial attention, amassing over 50,000 signatures. This considerable public support sparked vital discussions across various media platforms. Such discourse was instrumental in leading to significant changes, notably influencing an increase in Medicare funding.
This success story illustrates how powerful media influence can lead to tangible health reforms, thereby transforming lives positively. The campaign’s traction highlights the media’s role as a catalyst in initiating essential policy changes.
The discussion also shed light on the challenges women face due to endometriosis, including societal stigma and the overwhelming financial and emotional burdens. Particularly, the stigma often results in delayed diagnosis and treatment, exacerbating suffering. Despite the challenges, the campaign’s success in securing critical government funding to improve healthcare consultations marked a pivotal achievement. It represents not just a financial victory but also an acknowledgment of the struggles endured by millions of women.
Liz Burke, Lexi Cartwright, Julie Snook and Kerry Warren
The panel reflected on the ongoing efforts to further extend awareness and education about endometriosis. They stressed the fundamental importance of continued advocacy and meaningful policy change to support women affected by this condition.
The panellists acknowledged that while progress has been made, the journey towards a healthier and more informed future for women with endometriosis continues. They emphasised their dedication to ensuring that women, like the memorable mention of 84-year-old Rhonda and those who have navigated the complexities of endometriosis, including family planning and beyond, receive the support and recognition they deserve. Through ongoing efforts and a compassionate approach, they hope to continue inspiring change and support for those affected.
Warren detailed how the signatures were presented for Federal Health Minister Mark Butler and the subsequent funding of $49m.
Warren also noted having the campaign running on News.com.au was critical to its success. “We obviously have a mass audience. We reach 12 to 13 million Australians a month. So we aren’t speaking to an echo chamber.”
See also: About Bloody Time campaign spurs $49m government funding for endometriosis