In October 2024, the Maritime Centre for Pelvic Floor Health (MCPFH) launched a new initiative that is transforming how patients access and experience care. At the center of this change is the introduction of a nurse navigator model, which is improving both system efficiency and patient empowerment in pelvic health services.
Historically, patients referred to urogynecology and bladder health clinics often experienced lengthy delays, sometimes waiting years despite not always requiring specialized surgical intervention. With nurse navigation in place, the process has become more streamlined, ensuring patients are directed to the most appropriate care sooner.
Stephanie Kimpel, a registered nurse with more than 12 years of experience at IWK Health, has witnessed firsthand how this model is reshaping care.
“In the past, all of these patients would have waited to be seen in specialty clinics, even if surgery was never necessary,” says Kimpel. “This not only delayed their care but also created a bottleneck for those requiring more urgent intervention. Now, patients who opt for non-surgical paths can receive treatment sooner, while those who do need to see a specialist can be prioritized more efficiently.”
During the first half of the 2024/25 fiscal year, 28 per cent of the patients who went through the navigation process were referred to urogynecologists. However, nearly 50 per cent of patients were more appropriately matched with care options available in their communities, such as pelvic floor physiotherapy, or other specialty clinics within the MCPFH, such as the RN-led pessary clinic.
“When we began, many of our referrals dated back to 2020, with many patients waiting up to three years for an appointment,” says Kimpel. “Today, we've significantly reduced that wait time, and we are now seeing patients who have waited between 18 and 24 months. As we’ve improved access, the data has shifted, fewer patients are choosing surgery, and more are choosing community-based treatments when informed of their options earlier in the process.”
A key strength of this model is its emphasis on education. By helping patients better understand their symptoms and available treatment options early in their care journey, they are empowered to make informed decisions that align with their needs and preferences.
Those who eventually choose surgery are often better candidates, having already engaged in pelvic floor physiotherapy or pessary use to manage their symptoms. For others, symptom relief and quality of life can be improved while they wait, even if surgery is still on the horizon.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of this role is hearing directly from patients,” says Kimpel. “After a recent appointment, one patient who opted for community-based care shared “You’ve made me feel so much better about my health.” Her comment reflected a newfound understanding of her symptoms and confidence in navigating her treatment options, a testament to the power of nurse navigation.”
“In this role, we’re not only improving access to appropriate care, we’re also restoring dignity, reducing anxiety, and giving patients autonomy over their health care journey. It’s a model rooted in compassion, knowledge, and patient-centered care, and it’s making a meaningful difference.”