Recent UF grad transforms women’s pelvic care in Jacksonville, raises awareness statewide
When it comes to women’s pelvic care in Florida, occupational therapy hasn’t always been part of the larger treatment puzzle. But fall 2024 UF Doctor of Occupational Therapy graduate Paige Gibson is changing that, bringing more attention to patients with gynecologic cancer at UF Health Jacksonville and increasing awareness about women’s health statewide.
“Overall, this is a huge win for expanding the reach of occupational therapy services and establishing a presence within women’s health,” said Gibson, whose efforts have helped double the number of monthly occupational therapy hospital sessions for UF Health Jacksonville patients with gynecological cancers from 20 to 40. “Plus, securing new orders for this patient population in such a short period represents a major achievement.”
Gibson believes that adding occupational therapy to women’s care enhances recovery outcomes, as it helps address patients’ physical, emotional, mental, social, and sexual well-being.
“What Paige has done is open up opportunities for UF Health, UF occupational therapy students, and research,” said Pamela Hess, O.T.D., O.T.R., a clinical assistant professor in the UF College of Public Health and Health Professions’ Department of Occupational Therapy. “And, most importantly, she empowers female patients by giving them a sense of hope and return of their locus of control.”