Patients & Gynecologic Providers in Rural US - Care Access

Are you a patient or health-care provider with something to say about access to gynecologic care? Hi! I’m a journalist reporting on the growing gap in gynecologic care in the U.S., particularly in rural communities as maternity wards close and OB-GYNs leave. There’s a lot of discussion about who will deliver babies, but less about who will provide essential gynecologic care — Pap smears, contraception, menopause care, treatment for endometriosis and fibroids, and more. I’m looking to hear from patients and providers about what they’re experiencing: long wait times, traveling for care, difficulty finding a gynecologist, going without care, or seeing gaps in your community. I made a short survey to help with my reporting and connect with people who may be willing to share their experiences: Survey: https://forms.gle/ML2A6JzR5fGu9Cxq7 I come to this story with my own lived experience navigating the healthcare system. I have stage III endometriosis, PMOS and severe pelvic floor dysfunction. I’m reporting this project with support from the USC Center for Health Journalism, and it will ultimately be published in Straight Arrow News. You can also DM me if you’d rather talk privately. Thank you!