Client Story
Presentation
An employee contacted PHM for support for her 21-year-old daughter, who was hospitalized for severe abdominal pain while vacationing in Mexico. Initial tests suggested severe constipation with an intestinal blockage, but a gynecologist discovered bilateral ovarian teratomas (tumors) during examination. The gynecologist recommended immediate surgery to remove the left ovary due to concerns of ovarian torsion (twisting), a medical emergency, despite not being confirmed on imaging. The proposed surgery was an open abdominal procedure which would remove the ovary, risking her future fertility.
PHM Actions
The PHM Care Team quickly engaged with the mother by phone, gathering critical details and offering initial guidance on surgical options and further testing. PHM’s in-house gynecological specialist reviewed the medical records and agreed with the concern for torsion, recommending an ultrasound to assess the situation further. The PHM Care Team suggested consulting with a gynecologic oncologist for superior surgical expertise and recommended discussing ovarian-sparing techniques to preserve the patient’s fertility. When the ultrasound confirmed ovarian torsion, the PHM Care Team provided the reassurance that surgery was urgently needed.
Post-surgery, PHM supported the family with post-operative care advice, including the risks of flying, and coordinated a medical transport for the safe return of the patient to the United States. They also arranged a follow-up appointment within three days of the patient’s return to ensure proper care and recovery.
Outcome
The family felt confident in their decision to proceed with the emergency surgery in Mexico, thanks to PHM’s support in guiding the decision-making process and advocating for the necessary ultrasound. PHM’s Care Team also saved the family over eight hours of clinical coordination for medical transport, allowing them to focus on their daughter’s recovery. Concerns about continuity of care and follow-up were alleviated through PHM’s post-operative support.
The PHM Difference
PHM provided rapid, expert clinical support during a medical emergency abroad, ensuring optimal surgical outcomes and alleviating anxiety for the patient and her family.
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