SMH Launches Expanded Midwifery Program
[New Tecumseth, ON – August 21, 2024] Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) is announcing an expanded midwifery program, enhancing services in obstetrics with funding provided by the provincial government. Midwives are available to support all obstetrics patients at SMH (both midwifery and OB patients) and the new dedicated midwifery outpatient clinic.
The investment is a part of the Ontario Ministry of Health’s Expanded Midwifery Care Model (EMCM) program. This program aims to improve access to midwifery services in communities with demonstrated needs and expand the options for midwife-delivered care to a broader patient population.
SMH has had a long-standing relationship with the Alliston Midwives, having been partners for almost 30 years. This newly expanded partnership will increase their role and presence at the hospital, working collaboratively with obstetricians and nursing staff at SMH.
As part of the expanded program, examples of support the midwives can provide include:
- Surgical assist in C-sections
- Newborn exams and facilitating early discharge for OB patients
- Postpartum wellness checks for mom and baby and breastfeeding support
- Bilirubin follow-up and Home Phototherapy Program for infants with jaundice
- Enhance staffing by supporting nurses
- Mentoring and education support
- Virtual Prenatal Breastfeeding Information Sessions
This is a fully funded self-referral program, including for those patients without OHIP. For any prenatal patient looking to sign up for a breastfeeding info session or any family unable to get an appointment with their healthcare provider (within 24-48 hours), patients can contact the Expanded Midwifery Clinic at EMC@smhosp.on.ca to arrange a clinic visit. Primary care providers are welcome to share this resource with their patients if they could benefit from the specialized or off-hour services.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for us as a community hospital and any of our patients in obstetrics who choose Stevenson for labour and delivery services,” says Julia Mullen, VP Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Executive. “We are grateful for our partnership with the Alliston Midwives and are pleased that they will have an enhanced role, providing additional support services to patients and families in our community, especially those who may not have a family physician.”
“New Tecumseth is growing as both businesses and families recognize the opportunity and beauty the area offers,” said Simcoe-Grey MPP Brian Saunderson. “Stevenson Memorial Hospital is also expanding. This enhanced service will ensure young families are supported at one of the most important times in their life.”
“We’re very excited to bring these additional services to OB patients at the hospital and we look forward to meeting all of the new families to come,” says Holly Ryan, Lead Midwife, SMH. ‘We enjoy working with the team at SMH and as one of only two dozen Expanded Midwifery Clinics in the province, we know how unique and beneficial our program is to our local community.”
