Practice Without Pressure prepares women with
disabilities for gynecological exams
Practice Without Pressure, Inc. will launch its
Women's Health Initiative this winter with a series of small classes
targeted to address the healthcare needs of women with disabilities.
"Research shows that women with disabilities
receive less gynecological care than their peers even though their needs
are the same," says Deborah Jastrebski, chief executive officer of
Practice Without Pressure (PWP).Often, it's not lack of money or
insurance that keeps them away. It's the fear factor. "Women with
disabilities need preparation for gynecological visits that are by their
nature personal and invasive," Jastrebski says. "Without that advance
training, the entire experience can be so difficult, women, both young
and old who have disabilities, refuse ongoing care even when it is
essential for their health."
To meet that need, PWP has created a series of
four small, one-hour classes in New Castle and Sussex Counties to
familiarize women and teenage girls with the procedures and equipment
used in women's health exams. The sessions, taught by a PWP practice
specialist and education coordinator, will demystify the doctor visit
through discussion, video, and demonstrations of breast and pelvic exams
using medical mannequins. The lessons will also bring an exam room to
the classroom, so women can become familiar with an exam table, gown,
drape, and speculum before a doctor visit occurs. One session will
include a visit by a women's health doctor to address any concerns that
my come up during these classes.
Classes in New Castle will be held at the Special
Olympics Newark office.
Sessions will run from 7 pm to 8 pm on consecutive
Thursday evenings starting on February 7 and ending on February 28.
In Sussex County, winter seminars will be held at
the Georgetown Day Center on consecutive Thursdays, from 11 a.m. to 12
Noon, beginning January 24 and ending February 14. These initial
classes, supported by grant funding, are free, but donations are always
welcome.
The series will be open to six women plus a family
member or caregiver in both Newark and Georgetown locations. Because
space is limited, reservations must be made in advance.
This training represents the first Women's Health
Initiative by PWP in Delaware and continues this non-profit's quest to
help people with disabilities receive quality medical, dental and
personal care with dignity and respect.
To sign up for sessions or for more information
about PWP, please contact deb@pwpde.com,
or call 832-2800.
Helping Children and Adults with Disabilities
Receive Quality Medical, Dental and Personal Care with Dignity and
Respect.