Jemma Nesbit-Sackville, like many others, initially attributed her severe menstrual cramping to routine discomfort rather than a potential health concern. Growing up in Bendigo, the discussion around endometriosis was scarce, leading her to believe that her experiences were simply a part of life.
It wasn’t until undergoing pelvic surgery for another condition at the age of 35 that Nesbit-Sackville received her endometriosis diagnosis, shedding light on a condition affecting nearly 1 million Australians. Endometriosis involves the growth of cells resembling uterine lining cells in other parts of the body, often causing significant pain and discomfort.
Reflecting on her journey, Nesbit-Sackville emphasized the necessity of specialized care to manage endometriosis effectively. However, residing in Sale, Victoria, she faces challenges accessing the required medical expertise, often requiring extensive travel to Melbourne for appointments.
Nesbit-Sackville’s experience mirrors the broader issue of delayed endometriosis diagnoses, with statistics indicating an average timeframe of five to six years for diagnosis, particularly pronounced among women living outside metropolitan areas.
To address this gap, Endometriosis Australia has developed the CHARLI app, designed to streamline the diagnostic process and enhance access to healthcare services. Co-founder Samantha Costa highlighted CHARLI’s ability to identify abnormal patterns through user-input data, facilitate lifestyle adjustments, and connect users with a network of healthcare professionals via a built-in telehealth service.
The app’s objective is twofold: to empower women to recognize potential symptoms early in their reproductive journey and to facilitate proactive communication with healthcare providers. By collating comprehensive data, users can advocate for themselves more effectively and expedite the diagnostic process.
Dr. Anusch Yazdani, Medical Director of Endometriosis Australia, underscored the significance of CHARLI in providing equitable access to healthcare, particularly for women in regional and rural areas where specialized services are scarce. The app’s telehealth platform serves as a crucial bridge, enabling remote consultations and reducing barriers to care.
For Nesbit-Sackville and countless others grappling with endometriosis, CHARLI represents a beacon of hope, offering not only a tool for symptom tracking but also a platform for education and empowerment. By harnessing the power of artificial intelligence, CHARLI endeavors to revolutionize the landscape of endometriosis management, ensuring that every woman receives the care and support she deserves, regardless of her geographical location.
