Multispecialty team offers whole-person care for complex gynecologic issues
For many patients with pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, fibroids or endometriosis, getting a definitive diagnosis or finding the right treatment can be challenging. Main Line Health’s Advanced Gynecology Program helps these patients find answers and achieve their health goals.
"We listen to patients, believe them and involve them in every level of care," explains Jordan Klebanoff, MD, a fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon with Main Line Health. "Most patients with pelvic pain have been searching for answers for years and have gynecological issues that cannot be resolved with a simple single treatment or procedure. By partnering with a multispecialty team of providers, we successfully address whole-person care."
A multispecialty team treating gynecologic conditions
The Advanced Gynecology Program includes minimally invasive gynecologic surgeons and nurse practitioners partnered with urogynecologists, pelvic floor physical therapists, gastroenterologists, pain management specialists, fertility clinicians and others to diagnose and treat a wide range of noncancerous gynecologic issues. Some include:
- Endometriosis/adenomyosis
- Uterine fibroids
- Pelvic pain
- Urinary and fecal incontinence
- Infertility
- Sexual dysfunction
- Support for gender-affirming care
"Complex gynecologic issues can take extensive time and coordination to treat effectively. Many involve specialized surgical or medical treatment," says Joseph Gobern, MD, system chair for the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for Main Line Health and fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon. "Our program supports area OB/GYN physicians and primary care providers by acting as an extension of their practice to handle these complex cases. Patients can then return to their providers for ongoing care."
Coordinated, patient-first approach
One key to the Advanced Gynecology Program’s success is personalized coordination of care. Valerie Wood, CRNP, who serves as the program’s nurse navigator, guides patients through each step of diagnosis and treatment. In addition to evaluating patients and discussing individual health goals, her team provides patient education, verifies insurance, coordinates specialty-care appointments, and tracks patient progress and follow-up needs.
"Our advanced practice nurse navigator is the glue that allows us to provide seamless continuity of care," says Dr. Gobern. "With her coordination, we not only treat the underlying condition but also address the far-reaching effects it can cause — from endometriosis contributing to disabling pelvic pain to uterine fibroids impacting fertility. This greatly improves health outcomes and overall quality of life."
Expanded access, so you get the treatment you need
"The Advanced Gynecology Program has been growing rapidly since it began one year ago," says Dr. Klebanoff. The program began offering appointments at Lankenau Medical Center, part of Main Line Health, before expanding into Main Line Health Newtown Square. This new space allows patients to see many of our specialty physicians and to access physical therapy and other services under one roof. As a convenience, the program continues offering some appointments in Lankenau for patients closer to that location.
The program has increased its surgical access, as well. Katherine Chaves, MD, a fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon, recently joined the program as its third physician.
"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Chavez," says Dr. Klebanoff. "With her addition, we can better serve our growing patient population. Now, patients can get the treatment they need more quickly."
Next steps:
Make an appointment with Jordan Klebanoff, MD
Make an appointment with Katherine Chaves, MD
Make an appointment with Joseph Gobern, MD
Make an appointment with Valerie Wood, CRNP
Learn more about Main Line Health’s Advanced Gynecology Program
5 menstrual symptoms you shouldn't ignore