‘Life-changing’ pelvic health suite opens at Dartmouth General Hospital
After years of meticulous planning and successful fundraising efforts, the highly anticipated pelvic health suite has finally opened at Dartmouth General Hospital. This innovative suite brings together urology and gynecology procedures under one roof, aiming to streamline services and improve efficiency while reducing wait times for patients in need of specialized care.
Named the Deanne Reeve Pelvic Health Suite, this state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind in Atlantic Canada. It provides a dedicated space for conducting certain procedures that were previously performed in operating rooms, thereby freeing up valuable resources for more complex surgeries. Dr. Scott Mawdsley, the site chief for surgery at Dartmouth General Hospital, emphasized the importance of optimizing resources and creating efficiency by moving appropriate procedures to the pelvic health suite.
One of the key procedures that will be performed in the suite is hysteroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure that allows physicians to examine the uterus using a thin camera. This procedure will be conducted twice a week in the suite. Additionally, cystoscopy, a procedure to examine the bladder and urethra using a flexible camera, will be carried out three days a week. The suite will also accommodate other services such as IUD insertions and pelvic floor physiotherapy.
Dr. Mawdsley highlighted the patient-centered approach of the suite, where patients can observe the procedure in real-time and receive immediate diagnosis and treatment if necessary. This personalized care experience helps reduce anxiety and ensures a more efficient healthcare journey for the patients. The suite’s advanced equipment and trained staff enable physicians to provide high-quality care in a comfortable environment.
Patient Maggie Archibald shared her experience of enduring long wait times before receiving a correct diagnosis at Dartmouth General Hospital. She expressed optimism about the impact of the new pelvic health suite on improving access to care for individuals with pelvic health issues. Dr. Jon Duplisea, a urologist at the hospital, emphasized the suite’s capacity to increase the number of procedures performed, ultimately reducing waitlists and enhancing patient care.
The funding for the suite was largely raised through donations, including a significant contribution from the Orchid Gala fundraising group focused on women’s health. The suite’s name honors Deanne Reeve, a beloved individual who passed away from cervical cancer. The co-founders of the Orchid Gala, Liz Rigney and Sheri Morgan, emphasized the importance of destigmatizing women’s health issues and advocating for improved healthcare access for all individuals.
In conclusion, the opening of the Deanne Reeve Pelvic Health Suite marks a significant milestone in healthcare innovation in Atlantic Canada. This cutting-edge facility not only enhances efficiency and reduces wait times but also prioritizes patient comfort and personalized care. With a focus on collaboration and community support, the suite stands as a testament to the dedication and advocacy of individuals like Deanne Reeve, whose legacy continues to inspire positive change in healthcare.
