Advancing Lipedema Awareness: Our Contributions

  • Interactive session focused on building clarity for women navigating chronic, unresolved symptoms. Covered systemic gaps in women’s health, including lipedema alongside autoimmune and metabolic patterns, with practical strategies for self-advocacy and better care coordination.

    Mid-Atlantic CMSA, Case Management Week

    Delivered: November 8, 2025, 6:00–8:00 PM

    Continuing Education Credits: 1.0 credit (Nurses, Case Managers, Social Workers)

  • Digital CE on case managers as healthcare innovators in population health and women’s health. Showcased nurse-built screening tools and practical workflow supports that strengthen symptom recognition, referral readiness, and care coordination, including lipedema.

    National Case Management Society of America

    Delivered: June, 2025

    Continuing Education Credits: 1.0 credit (Nurses, Case Managers, Social Workers)

    • Date: June 5, 2024

    • Delivered At: National CMSA Conference

    • CE Credits: 1 CCM, RN, LSW, Disability

    • Abstract:
      This program highlighted the far-reaching consequences of Lipedema, a frequently misdiagnosed chronic tissue disorder, and its toll on patients and healthcare systems. Emphasizing the critical role of case managers, the session explored advocacy strategies to address healthcare inequities, promote early diagnosis, and prevent advanced disease progression.

      • Participants Learned To:

        • Recognize the significance of early diagnosis in preventing advanced Lipedema.

        • Identify evidence-based best practices (standards of care) and multidisciplinary approaches to care.

        • Address healthcare biases and inequities to enhance patient-centered outcomes.

      This session empowered case managers to take proactive steps in advancing equitable Lipedema care, supporting both patient well-being and systemic improvements.

  • Lipedema was recognized by Guardian Nurses through Thomas Jeffersons Award October, 2024 for Entrepreneurship - Recognition for nurse led company to advance care for women with Lipedema.

    • Date: October 9, 2023

    • Delivered At: CMSA Mid-Atlantic Chapter (Local Event)

    • CE Credits: 1 CCM, RN, LSW

    • Abstract:
      This presentation equipped nurses and case managers with practical tools to identify and manage Lipedema, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis to prevent disability. It provided actionable strategies for reducing healthcare disparities and improving patient outcomes.

      • Participants Learned To:

        • Recognize the signs and symptoms of Lipedema for timely intervention.

        • Understand the role of nursing professionals in advocating for effective care.

        • Apply patient-centered strategies to improve quality of life for Lipedema patients.

  • 2024 year long partnership to address the gaps in Lipedema Care and work toward solutions to improve the quality of care.

  • Pennsylvania HR11 (Lipedema Awareness Month) passed the House Health Committee vote 26–0 (May 7, 2025).” Pennsylvania General Assembly (see link)

Bridging the Knowledge Gap

Awareness and education about Lipedema are vital to improving outcomes for women. As a nurse, I’ve seen firsthand how the lack of understanding and late diagnosis impact women’s lives leading to unnecessary pain, frustration, and delayed care. By addressing these challenges, we can empower both patients and healthcare providers to close the gaps in care, foster earlier recognition, and create a path to better management.