Acceptability of using the Raising Awareness Tool for Endometriosis (RATE) in general practice: a mixed methods pilot study

Jacqueline Frayne, Talila Milroy, Charlotte Rook, Magdalena Simonis, Alan Lam
The Australian & New Zealand journal of obstetrics & gynaecology · 2023 · vol. 64(3) , pp. 210–215 · doi:10.1111/ajo.13768 · PMID:37905943 · W4388033798
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⚙ AI-generated summary by claude@2026-06, 2026-06-08 ⓘ

This pilot study found the Raising Awareness Tool for Endometriosis (RATE) acceptable for use in general practice, facilitating symptom discussions and management, though GPs experienced uncertainty with chronic pain questions.

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Abstract

Aims The Raising Awareness Tool for Endometriosis (RATE) was developed to facilitate discussions with health providers regarding endometriosis‐associated symptoms. We aim to evaluate the acceptability of the RATE by general practitioners (GP), including determining the prevalence of symptoms of women presenting to general practice and immediate management of symptoms. Methods A mixed‐methods study was undertaken using a combination of quantitative and qualitative data in Western Australian General Practices from 2021 to 2022. A purposive sample of 12 GPs were included, who recruited women (18–50 years) on attendance for consultation over a one‐ to two‐week period, followed by qualitative interviews exploring GPs’ experiences with the tool. The quantitative and qualitative components were integrated during analysis of results. Results A total of 111 women completed the RATE (mean: 33, standard deviation: 8.6 years) prior to routine consultation. The tool was considered to be acceptable for use in general practice and aided discussions on symptoms and management. Overall, 68.5% of patients experienced pelvic pain or discomfort, with 22.4% rating that this interfered with quality of life. Of those with pelvic pain, 75% had associated chronic pain conditions, and 42.1% reported allodynia. The chronic pain questions provoked GP uncertainty. After symptoms were identified, GPs arranged individualised investigations and follow‐up. Conclusions The RATE was considered to be acceptable for use in the general practice setting. It identified symptoms and initiated discussions on possible diagnosis as well as management of endometriosis. Further GP education on identifying those women at most risk of developing chronic pain syndromes is needed.

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Condition tags

endometriosischronic_pelvic_pain

MeSH descriptors

Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis Endometriosis General Practice General Practice General Practice General Practice General Practice General Practice Adolescent Adolescent Adolescent Adolescent Adolescent Adolescent Adult

Citation neighborhood

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