Chandler Murray

Capstone Development

Statement of Purpose 

The purpose of the doctoral capstone is to determine the feasibility of, the benefit of, and the need for integrating occupational therapy (OT) services into women’s health clinics (such as obstetrics, gynecology [OB/GYN], and/or urogynecology [UroGYN]) in the Cincinnati area in order to improve women’s unmet health needs, like pelvic floor dysfunctions (PFDs).

Summary of the Problem
 

In the United States, roughly 1 in 4 women will suffer from at least one pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in their lifetime (Dieter et al., 2016; Luber et al., 2001) causing pain and discomfort in the pelvic region and/or incontinence which leads to decreases in sleep, sexual activity, social outings, recreational activities, and increased medical expenses (Burkhart et al., 2020; Wu et al., 2009). The pain and embarrassment associated with PFDs results in issues with mental health including increased anxiety, social isolation and alienation, feelings of helplessness, depression, and mood deterioration with decreases in work and social participation and overall self-esteem (Radzimińska et al., 2018). Many women and even medical professionals are uneducated on and/or unaware of pelvic floor dysfunctions, thus many women do not seek treatment and many doctors do not assess these issues nor refer them for less-invasive treatments (Berzuk & Shay, 2015; Fante et al., 2019; Lamin et al., 2016; Parden et al., 2016). At TriHealth, pelvic floor dysfunctions can be referred to outpatient clinics, but they are located outside of the primary women’s health service buildings and these dysfunctions are typically treated by physical therapists as their option is called: Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy at TriHealth (TriHealth, 2022). There is a need for a holistic and client-centered treatment approach for pelvic floor dysfunctions in order to enhance occupational participation for these women.  

Topic of Interest:  OT's role in women's health

Focus Areas of Interest: Advocacy, Leadership, and Program Development

Scholarship Type:  Scholarship of Application  

PIO Question:

Is integrating occupational therapy (OT) services into an OB/GYN/UroGyn clinic feasible and beneficial for OTs, physicians, and patients?

Literature Review:                                                            Capstone Project Form (Year 2)

Literature Review                                                                      Project form

SWOT Analysis:                                                                 Capstone Elevator Pitch (OCTD 705)

SWOT Analysis Document                                                                    

Site Identification: 

TriHealth OB/GYN and Urogyn

Communication Log:
                                              
Communication Record 

Site Research and Assessment:

TriHealth Research and Assessment


Capstone Goals and Objectives:

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Goals and Objectives 

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Capstone Presentation (12/6/2022):

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Capstone Presentation Video