Sonya Oper is no stranger to advocacy and support roles. A social worker with extensive experience working in the health and family violence sectors, she’s joined BCHS to provide targeted support and care for those in the region who were patients of former Melbourne gynaecologist Simon Gordon.
As the newly installed Care Navigator, Sonya is a trusted point of contact for those women or gender diverse people, helping them to understand what supports are available and to actively assist with referrals and connections.
"The pain felt by former patients of Simon Gordon is real, it's as real as endometriosis pain," Sonya said
“I’m here to ensure anyone wanting, or needing, follow-up care can get it in a safe and supportive environment. Any appointments will be done at a client’s pace and will focus on what matters the most to them right now in terms of their health and wellbeing.”
Based in BCHS’ Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic, Sonya will work alongside GPs, allied and mental health services as well as specialist clinics and hospitals to provide education and support easy navigation through the health system.
“Making an informed decision about your own health care is a right that everyone deserves to have,” Sonya said. “Once I’ve met with a patient and we’ve discussed their main goals and any barriers, we can move forward – using established partnerships with other providers if need be – to put a care plan in place that will ensure they can thrive.”
She stressed that if someone coming in didn’t want to discuss their experience with Simon Gordon, they didn’t have to.
“Everyone’s needs are different,” she said. “While some patients may find it helpful to talk about their past experiences, others may not and that’s okay. My time with a patient is about getting to know them and their situation, what they want from the health care system and how I can get them there. It’s about connection in every sense of the word.”
To book an appointment with Sonya call 5406 1200.
*Please note: Referrals are not needed for this free service, nor is evidence of being a former patient of Simon Gordon.