$31,000 AUD. That’s the average cost Australian women* with endometriosis incur per year, according to a 2019 study by Western Sydney University. This substantial figure encompasses not just direct medical expenses, but also lost work productivity, alternative therapies, pain relief accessories, and mental health support.
This figure is echoed in personal accounts, such as those shared on QENDO’s What It Cost Me series, where patients highlight not just medical fees but the overall expenses associated with managing the condition.
For the estimated 830,000 Australian women living with endometriosis, the question becomes not just about managing the condition, but doing so in a financially sustainable way.
Let’s explore the three main avenues available: public healthcare, private treatment, and the emerging option of medical tourism.
The Public System: Free but Slow
The Australian Government recently announced an expansion of Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics nationwide as part of the National Action Plan for Endometriosis, aiming to reduce diagnosis timeframes and improve access to care.
Pros:
- Free treatment through Medicare
- Access to new Medicare-funded MRI scans
- Part of the National Action Plan for Endometriosis
Cons:
- Extended wait times
- Limited choice of specialists
- Resource constraints
The Private Route: Faster but Costly
Private healthcare offers quicker access to specialists and a wider range of treatment options. However, it comes with a hefty price tag.
Pros:
- Reduced waiting periods
- Choice of doctors and hospitals
- Better access to comprehensive scans
Cons:
- Higher out-of-pocket costs
- Variability in coverage
- Potential for additional charges for tests and procedures
The Medical Tourism Option: Another Perspective
For those willing to look beyond Australian shores, medical tourism presents an intriguing alternative. Countries like Singapore, Thailand, Romania, US, India offer advanced endometriosis treatments.
Pros:
- Potentially lower costs than Australian private care
- Access to international specialists and cutting-edge treatments
- Shorter wait times
Cons:
- Risks with follow-up care
- Potential language and cultural barriers
- Travel costs and logistical challenges
There are various reasons one might consider going international in their search for medical care. From financial constraints to timely access to the latest treatments, many women with endometriosis are exploring medical tourism.
The Wellborn Network in Bucharest, Romania, led by Dr. Mitroi Gabriel, has gained attention among endometriosis patients worldwide. With many Romanians fluent in English, communication barriers are minimised for Australian patients.
Sample Treatment Costs (As of February 2025)
| Procedure | Price ROM | Price AUD |
| Laparoscopic treatment of stage I-II endometriosis | 10,390.00 | 3,430.67 |
| Laparoscopic treatment of stage II-III endometriosis without digestive/urological resection | 12,950.00 | 4,275.46 |
| Laparoscopic treatment of stage III-IV endometriosis with digestive resection | 32,650.00 | 10,778.17 |
| Excision of parietal endometrioma | 7,850.00 | 2,591.23 |
*Note: Prices are based on the exchange rate of 1 RON = 0.3301 AUD (as of February 21, 2025). These rates are subject to change, and additional costs for travel and accommodation may apply. This article is not affiliated with any medical provider and is intended for informational purposes only. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions. Treatments are individualised and you might need other procedures not covered by this list.
Making an informed decision
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual circumstances, including the severity of your condition, financial situation, and personal preferences. Consult with healthcare professionals, do thorough research, and consider participating in endometriosis research studies to contribute to future advancements in care.
The journey with endometriosis may be challenging, but with expanding options and ongoing research, there’s hope for better, more accessible treatment for all affected women.
A snapshot of considerations
| Public Healthcare | Private Healthcare | Medical Tourism | |
| Cost | Free treatment through Medicare | Higher out-of-pocket costs | Potentially lower costs, but varies by country |
| Wait times | 6-8 years average for diagnosis | Shorter waiting times for specialist appointments | Generally shorter wait times |
| Choice of doctors | Limited choice of doctors | Choice of doctors and hospitals | Access to international specialists |
| Access to advanced diagnostics | Access to new Medicare-funded MRI scans | Better access to comprehensive scans, but with cost gaps | Varies by country and facility |
| Treatment options | Part of the National Action Plan for Endometriosis | Access to a wider range of treatment options | Possible access to treatments not available in Australia |
| Continuity of care | Consistent follow-up within the public system | Consistent follow-up with chosen specialist | Challenges with follow-up care after returning home |
| Language and cultural considerations | Services in local language and familiar culture | Services in local language and familiar culture | Potential language barriers and cultural differences |
| Insurance coverage | Covered by Medicare | Covered by private health insurance (with gaps) | May not be covered by Australian insurance |
| Travel requirements | Local treatment | Local treatment | International travel required |
| Legal protections | Australian medical and legal system | Australian medical and legal system | Varies by country, potentially limited recourse |
