So you’ve made the choice to have a baby. Depending on your personal preferences, it’s now time to choose the right health care provider and the right hospital to help deliver your baby.
Choosing a physician or midwife is a personal decision. You probably have a vision of the birth experience you wish to have and you should find a provider who closely matches that vision. Here are a few questions that you can ask in order to help you make a more informed decision.
Things to ask your physician or midwife.
- At which hospital do you deliver babies?
- What is your practice philosophy?
- What type of health insurances do you accept?
- Will you deliver my baby? Or will one of your associates?
- Where is your office(s) located?
- What obstetrical training have you had?
- How long have you been practicing?
- What is your philosophy on labor pain control?
- What are your hours?
- If I have a problem, whom should I call after hours?
In order for you to have the birthing experience you desire, it is important to know about the features of the hospital where you will be delivering. Having the knowledge about certain features can make you feel comfortable that you and your baby will receive high-quality care in a pleasant family-centered atmosphere.
Things to ask when choosing a hospital.
- Do you have labor/deliver/recovery suites? Who can be with me during labor?
- Do you have 24-hour anesthesiology physicians on staff and available to administer epidurals?
- Do you have a neonatal intensive care unit?
- Do you have local neonatologists on staff full-time?
- How experienced is your nursing staff with high-risk pregnancies?
- How do I pre-register?
- Do you allow rooming in of the baby with the mother?
- Do you have a breastfeeding consultant?
- Do you have education classes for mom, dad, and siblings?
- Do you have private rooms?
- Does your hospital support natural labor techniques?
The answers to the questions above can give you an idea of some of the important issues, but please know there may be additional questions that you have. Remember, never feel bad about asking questions. An informed decision is the best decision. At the Family Birthing Center at Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, our philosophy is based upon that of the International Childbirth Education Association. “Freedom of choice, based on the knowledge of alternatives.” We believe in giving women choices for their birth experience and we strive to make each birth individualized and special.
If you are looking for a physician or midwife to deliver your baby or for more information on the Memorial Hospital of Carbondale Family Birthing Center call 1-866-744-2468.
Physicians providing services at and admitting patients to Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, Herrin Hospital and St. Joseph Memorial Hospital are not employees of the hospitals. Physicians exercise their own independent judgment regarding medical care and treatment and the hospitals are not responsible for their actions.