I have many questions for NHS and Black Afro/carribean endo patients.

[AnnaMae]

Are there any Black African or Carribean patients here? My mom, sister, aunt and I have had fibroids with endo. I understand that unfortunately, we are 3 times more likely to develop uterine fibroids than others but the endo link is confusing.

Also, I would like to know how a migrant (legal) should manage this condition, in respect of the new NHS surcharge levy (immigration act). I am an international student who pays almost triple the normal tuition rate. I also work part time and have paid National Insurance on several occassions. Now, an immigration lawyer is insinuating that my excision surgery could be classed under "expensive, discretionary treatment", which I might be charged for. She was not sure but this has me worried. I did not know I had endo until I came to study here. My endo is level 4, spread with adhesions to my bowels, uterus and bladder. I have missed examinations because of this and I have had 2 emergency admissions. I had laparoscopy laser treatment in 2015 and I have been on Prostab for 2 tumultuous years till date. How is an excision surgery "expensive discretionary treatment"?.

[magSLE]

Hi Anna Mae, sadly I don't have the answers to your questions but there are Disability Action organisations that may be able to give that info or a lead to experts. Also the Citizen Advice Bureau (all over the UK) should be able to offer the relevant advice. Pls let us know on this forum -where, when, what happens. I pray you get the care & support you need as well as a speedy recovery x

[AnnaMae in reply to magSLE]

Thanks for replying and your words of encouragement. I was told that speaking with the bureau could trigger an NHS investigation. It's tiring, thinking I might be treated like a health tourist. I've been working and studying here for 4 years.