WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – When faced with extremely sensitive issues involving the pelvic floor, patients are often embarrassed to discuss such private things with their family and closest friends. Some find it so uncomfortable that they delay or even avoid getting treatment. To help with this, Novant Health will open the Novant Health Carolinas Pelvic Health Center on June 27 in Winston-Salem, the region’s first comprehensive, patient-centered approach to pelvic floor issues.
In the past, a patient needing treatment with pelvic conditions would typically have to individually visit their primary care provider, gynecologist, urologist, urogynecologist and others. Novant Health Carolinas Pelvic Health Center will provide patients with one-stop diagnosis, evaluation and treatment, staffed by urogynecologists, urologists, colorectal surgeons, physical therapists and gynecologists. This will improve overall care, reduce wait times and improve the patient experience by having every specialist under one roof. A referral from a primary care provider is not required to make an appointment.
The center is the first of its kind in the area that can diagnose, evaluate and treat a wide range of conditions to achieve the best outcomes for patients. Pelvic health includes a wide array of diagnoses, including urinary incontinence, neuro-urologic disorders, pelvic organ prolapse, fecal incontinence, inflammatory bowel disorders and other pelvic floor disorders. Typically thought to be a condition that affects mature women, pelvic conditions are seen among men and women of all ages and fitness levels.
The International Urogynecology Journal published a recent study on 291 athletes. The group had an average age of 22.8 years, and 52 percent had experienced urine loss while participating in their sport or in daily life situations. This is a common issue that doesn’t receive much attention because it can be embarrassing to speak about, but most conditions can be treated quickly and effectively. The clinic will offer a full range of treatment options, including rehabilitation, for women and men who often suffer in silence rather than seek medical or surgical help.
This is an exciting new venture to bring together an expert multidisciplinary approach to pelvic floor health. The center’s well-known team members include John J. Smith III, MD; Douglas Miyazaki, MD; Stan Fuller, MD; Nicolas Robinson, MD; Deirdre Bland, MD; and Lori Baydush, physical therapist. Each provider is specially trained to respond with sensitivity and provide expert personalized care to patients. The team is focused on creating a positive, therapeutic environment for patients to receive the latest technological care in male and female pelvic health and physical therapy.
Novant Health Carolinas Pelvic Health Center is located at 770 Highland Oaks Drive in Winston-Salem. For more information, call Sheila Koone at 336-718-4237.
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