AQW 47417/22-27 Written question to the Minister of Health

To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to prevent the misdiagnosis of coeliac disease with irritable bowel syndrome.

Asked by Connie Egan MLA on 29 May 2026

  • Answered
  • Written
  • After due date
Tabled
29 May 2026
Answer due by
15 June 2026
Answered
19 June 202621 days after tabling
Department
Department of Health
Priority question
No

Answer

Patients will generally present in the first instance to their GP practice, where primary care professionals will assess symptoms and consider coeliac disease as part of differential diagnosis.

Established primary care pathways are in place, including initial blood testing and, where appropriate, referral to secondary care for outpatient assessment and endoscopic investigations to support diagnosis.

Healthcare professionals across primary and secondary care within HSC continue to engage with relevant charitable organisations and voluntary groups to support patient awareness, education, and condition management.

Ongoing education and training ensure that both primary and secondary care professionals remain aware of the symptoms, testing requirements, and referral pathways associated with coeliac disease.

Official sources