Patient Perspectives on the Missed Opportunities and Barriers During the Diagnostic Journey: A Mixed Method Cross Sectional Study on Endometriosis in Australia

Explore patient-reported barriers and missed opportunities across all domains of life during the endometriosis diagnostic process. A mixed methods crosssectional exploratory study using a co-designed online survey in people over 18 diagnosed with endometriosis via laparoscopy, residing in Australia. Quantitative data explored demographics, diagnosis, and care teams. Qualitative findings about missed opportunities and barriers were derived from free-text questions analyzed using deductive and inductive thematic analysis. Ninety-five participants completed the survey. The average time from symptom onset to diagnosis was 8.5 years. Findings highlighted patient invalidation and dismissal, poor understanding of endometriosis, missed opportunities for early holistic care, and self-advocacy.