Welcome to this week’s exploration into the world of healthcare innovation, where we delve into the stories and strategies that are reshaping patient care. 

In today’s spotlight, we focus on Parijat Deshpande, who works in women’s health and OBGYN. Her work in trauma-informed care helps clinicians understand how to better support their clients.

Listen to this episode of the Well Kept podcast!

Show Notes

In this episode of the Well Kept podcast, Carmen chats with Parijat Deshpande from Ruvelle, who specializes in trauma-informed care. 

They discuss Parijat’s work in improving high-risk pregnancy outcomes through trauma-informed approaches and the significance of addressing generational trauma. 

Parijat explains the concept of medical trauma and offers practical tips for healthcare providers to help prevent it, emphasizing the importance of consent and physiological safety in patient interactions. They also explore the impact of stress on the immune system and the benefits of somatic therapy in healing trauma. 

The episode offers valuable insights into holistic care and effective communication techniques for healthcare professionals.

• 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
• 00:27 Persia’s Business and Mission
• 03:46 Medical Trauma: Definition and Prevention
• 05:37 Trauma-Informed Care Techniques
• 20:43 Somatic Work and Its Impact
• 31:39 Challenges in Healthcare and Provider Burnout
• 36:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Trauma-Informed Care in High-Risk Pregnancy

In a recent podcast episode hosted by Carmen from The Well Kept podcast, a profound discussion unfolded about the intricacies of medical trauma and how healthcare providers can better communicate and support patients. Carmen was joined by Parijat Deshpande from Ruvelle and Healthy High Risk Pregnancy, who shared invaluable insights into trauma-informed care and its role in improving patient outcomes.

Understanding Medical Trauma

Medical trauma occurs when a patient’s physiological response to a perceived threat in a medical setting is activated and not completed. This can result in feelings of being unsafe, and the experience of trauma varies from person to person. Parijat emphasized that preventing medical trauma in patients involves helping them feel safe during their medical care. Simple actions like asking questions, allowing patients to have a say in their care, and giving them time to process information can make a significant difference.

The Importance of Completing the Threat Cycle

One of the key strategies in preventing medical trauma is ensuring that a patient’s threat cycle is completed. This involves acknowledging the physiological reactions triggered in a medical setting and addressing them so they do not remain as traumatic memories. Healthcare providers can aid in this process by offering patients choices about when and how they receive information, validating their feelings, and providing a supportive environment in which they are fully engaged in their care.

Communication Strategies for Healthcare Providers

Effective communication is central to preventing medical trauma. Providers should approach conversations with sensitivity and allow patients the space to express their needs. Asking questions like, “What would make you feel safe right now?” can open up a dialogue where patients feel empowered and understood. Recognizing that every patient’s response is valid and that overreactions may signal underlying unresolved traumas are crucial steps in delivering compassionate care.

The Role of Somatic Work in Healing Trauma

Parijat’s work focuses extensively on somatic therapies, which address the physical responses to trauma. Unlike traditional therapy, somatic work involves sensory systems and movement to complete threat cycles and re-regulate the body’s systems. This approach has shown remarkable results in reducing inflammatory markers and promoting overall health improvements, demonstrating the powerful link between physical health and trauma recovery.

Bridging the Gap: A Holistic Approach to Health

This conversation highlights the need for a holistic approach in healthcare, integrating both trauma-informed and traditional medical practices. By considering emotional, physiological, and environmental factors, providers can address the complete health of their patients. Parijat’s insights underline the importance of including somatic work as a pillar in patient care, aiming to prevent trauma from manifesting into long-term health issues.

Supporting Providers and Patients Alike

In closing, Parijat stressed the need for continuous support for healthcare providers to manage their own experiences of trauma and burnout. Developments in this area not only benefit providers but also enhance the care they deliver to patients. Encouraging collaboration between healthcare teams can ensure a comprehensive support network is available for addressing both patient and provider needs.

Conclusion

The discussion between Carmen and Parijat offered an enlightening perspective on medical trauma prevention and the essential role of communication and somatic therapies in patient care. As more providers become aware of these practices, the landscape of healthcare can shift towards a more supportive and patient-centered approach, fostering healing and resilience in both patients and providers.

Healthcare professionals and interested readers are encouraged to explore trauma-informed practices and consider integrating these valuable insights into their work to enhance patient care and well-being.