WOMEN are being urged to claim back the cost of transvaginal mesh removal this month if they sought private surgery.

The Transvaginal Mesh Removal Reimbursement Scheme, which has enabled women to claim back the cost of private mesh removal arranged before June 3 in 2022, is set to close at the end of March.

Originally due to close at the end of 2023, the scheme was extended by the Scottish Government to give women a final chance to apply.

Clackmannanshire and Dunblane representative MSP Keith Brown is urging those eligible to apply and has been raising awareness of the planned end date for applications on March 31.

He said: “That final closure date is now almost upon us with the scheme definitely coming to a close at the end of March and so I would like to any woman who thinks she may be eligible for reimbursement to apply before March 31.

“Many women suffered through complications from this mesh surgery and sought private remedy.

“I do not want any of my constituents missing out on any recompense they might be due.

“It is also important to stress that the reimbursement scheme was about historic costs prior to new arrangements being in place and its conclusion will have no effect on the arrangements now in place for women to have surgery with private providers in the UK and the United States through the National Mesh Removal Referral Pathway.

“This will continue to be arranged and paid for by the NHS.”

It is understood many women experienced immense pain and suffering due to complications after having had a transvaginal mesh implanted.

Jenni Minto, women's health minister, added: “It is important that women who are eligible to apply to the Transvaginal Mesh Removal Reimbursement Scheme are not left out of pocket, which is why the Scottish Government extended the scheme.

“I would urge any women who thinks she may be eligible for reimbursement to apply before March 31.”

Application forms are available from NHS National Services Scotland.