The UCA Women’s Center opened in September 2018 with the goal of taking a unique urological approach to female health. Part of that approach is the implementation of a Female Health Navigator – a health representative responsible for bridging the gap between UCA Women’s Center physicians and patients. We sat down with Cassidy Henningsen, UCA Women’s Center’s first Female Health Navigator, to discuss what her position means for patients, and what it is about Birmingham she loves so much.

Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am originally from Samford, Florida, and moved to Alabama in 2004. I graduated from Jeff State and worked with a health insurance company that moved me from Alabama to Tennessee and North Carolina and then back to Alabama. I joined Urology Centers of Alabama five years (2014) ago as a Medical Secretary, then I became the Site Supervisor for our Princeton and Medical West locations, while working for Dr. Bivins.  When this position was created, I jumped at the chance to develop the Female Health Navigator role.

Q: How did you get interested in the healthcare field?

My grandmother was a nurse, and my mom was an OR nurse. When I was a kid, my siblings and I would go to the hospital after school and wait for my mom in the OR waiting room. I was always fascinated about her days. I do remember one Christmas Eve we had to go in with her just after dinner because she was on call. But, that was just the way it was. It felt pretty normal.

Q: What is a Health Navigator?

My role as a Health Navigator is to be an advocate for OAB patients. When a woman comes in and is diagnosed by one of our physicians, I want her to know that I am a resource for them – that I am a conduit between them and the doctor. I help coach them through their treatments and options. I’ll call to make sure their prescriptions are affordable. I’ll discuss other alternatives if they aren’t seeing any progress. I work really closely with the physicians to make sure patients are educated on all treatment options available to them for the OAB symptoms. 

Q: What do you want patients to know about your role as a Health Navigator?

You are never alone. I am your advocate and stand by you as long as you need me to. Treating OAB is a team effort, and we are all part of a team. Patients can always call me and ask questions or share any OAB experiences they may be having. There are no bad questions and no situations that are too embarrassing. We are all here for you.

Q: What is your approach to patient care?

My goal is to do whatever it takes to help my patients feel better. Managing OAB can be stressful and frustrating, and I want patients to know that I am here to make it easier for them. I don’t want patients to lose hope if a treatment isn’t working. I want them to know that I’m with them until we find a treatment that makes them feel like themselves again.

Q: How do you stay up-to-date on urological treatments?

Of course, our physicians are my biggest source when it comes to urological treatments.  I have a Google alert set up for any news about female health and urological issues. YouTube is an amazing resource and I enjoy listening to testimonials about OAB success. Another major source of information for me are our vendor representatives. I’ll inquire about new treatments, medicines, treatments or even updated insurance benefits.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

Birmingham is becoming such a great foodie town. I love exploring all the new restaurants that pop up. So many of the neighborhoods and downtown Birmingham are really growing and I love to explore it all. I also love going to the gym and tending to my new home.