Presenters
- Lauren Thibodeau, AMFT, Behavioral Health Provider, San Diego, CA
- Laura Sudano, PhD, LMFT Associate Director, Integrated Behavioral Health/UCSD Family Medicine and Public Health
- Dr. Chandra Spring-Robinson, DO, MS Eng, Obstetrician & Gynecologist Physician, San Diego Women's Health Center, San Diego, CA
- Kelly Goldsteinholm, AMFT/University of San Diego/Behavioral Health Provider Intern, HomeStart
Summary
Endometriosis is often misdiagnosed, mistreated, or missed entirely by providers. Delayed diagnosis leads to poor treatment outcomes and increased healthcare costs. We aim to give a voice to women suffering from endometriosis. We hypothesize that current insufficient practices for women’s healthcare are the result of stigma, a lack of medical training, and providers not listening to women or taking their pain seriously. Participants will be given handouts on the cardinal symptoms of endometriosis, key questions to ask during assessment, and common misdiagnoses. Interactive vignettes will illustrate both the severity and debilitating nature of endometriosis and the improved quality of life that providers can offer their patients when their complaints are taken seriously, as well as the suffering that is caused when they aren’t. Techs, nurses, primary care physicians, gynecologists and general surgeons will have a better understanding of what to look for in these patients. Mental healthcare providers will have a deeper understanding of how to facilitate medical rule outs and advocate for their patients. Participants will walk away with an increased knowledge of the disparities in women’s health, the ability to assess for and recognize endometriosis and resources and referrals to share with their staff and patients. Orientation to Workshop, 5 minutes: Introductions, review objectives, root conversation in historical context. Case Study Presentation, 20 minutes: Participants will be given vignettes based on case studies and invited to assess, diagnose and treatment plan for their patients. Didactic Lecture, 15 minutes: Overview of cardinal signs/symptoms of endometriosis, important questions for assessment, proper diagnosis and treatment options. Address Participant Questions, 15 minutes: Participants will get to address their concerns and ask clarifying questions of the presenters. Conclusion, 5: Provide speaker contact information, handouts and patient resources.
Objectives
- Recognize and challenge the stigma associated with women's health issues.
- Conduct a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment and recognize when symptomatology presents as abnormal.
- Collaborate with specialists who can address the higher level of care and treatment needed for women with Endometriosis.
