Jersey has established a trial health screening clinic dedicated to women with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), a metabolic condition that affects the functioning of the ovaries and is associated with infertility and weight gain. The condition, which was renamed from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in May to better reflect its systemic nature, impacts up to one in eight women according to the UK’s National Health Service.
The pilot clinic, operating at the Assisted Reproductive Unit in St Brelade from October, will provide screening and assessment services rather than diagnostic or treatment functions. Women seeking access must first consult their general practitioner for referral to the service. The clinic will offer comprehensive reviews including medication assessments, physical measurements, sleep evaluation, mental health screening, and investigations such as ultrasound scans and endometrial biopsies. Those requiring specialized care for fertility concerns, heavy menstrual bleeding, or other gynecological issues will be directed to appropriate specialist services.
Jessica Pinel, chair of PMOS Jersey, characterized the initiative as a positive development while emphasizing the need for continued progress. She highlighted financial barriers that may prevent individuals from seeking care and noted the benefits of integrating the clinic into the government health system, which enables referrals across multiple specialties including endocrinology and dermatology. Screening clinic nurse Corrinne Purdy described the service as taking a holistic approach to patient management, addressing the diverse ways PMOS affects different women.
Assistant Minister for Health and Social Services Andy Howell stated the clinic demonstrates the government’s commitment to addressing the condition that has been historically overlooked. The service will operate using existing clinical capacity reallocated from other areas, requiring no additional budget expenditure. Officials indicated the clinic’s operations and future development will align with draft guidance from the UK’s National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, with plans to incorporate feedback from service users to optimize support and care delivery.
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