Welcoming New Life: Discover the Birth Center at Spencer Hospital

posted on Wednesday, December 4, 2024

Starting a family is one of life's most significant journeys, and choosing the right place for this momentous occasion is crucial. Families in the region are increasingly turning to the Birth Center at Spencer Hospital, where expert care seamlessly intertwines with a warm, supportive environment. This unique setting not only prioritizes the well-being of mothers and their newborns but also fosters a community of care that makes every delivery a memorable experience.

The Birth Center at Spencer Hospital is designed with families in mind. Each delivery suite is spacious and thoughtfully appointed, combining the latest medical technology with a home-like atmosphere. From the moment families step into the Birth Center, they are welcomed into a space tailored for comfort and care. The calming colors, comfortable furnishings, and thoughtful amenities help create a serene environment, allowing families to focus on the joyous occasion of welcoming a new member.

At the heart of the Birth Center is a collaborative team of physicians from Avera Medical Group Spencer and dedicated staff who blend expertise with compassion. This esteemed group includes Dr. David Keith, Dr. Amy Jochims, Dr. William Bensen, Dr. Yelena Coffield, Dr. Luke DeJong, Dr. Nathaniel Meyer, Dr. Travis Witt, and Dr. Amanda Young. Each physician contributes their unique skills and patient-centered approach, ensuring families receive the highest quality care during this pivotal moment. Working in harmony with nurses, physical therapists, dietitians, and specialists, they create a comprehensive care network that supports families throughout their entire journey, from prenatal to postnatal care.

One of the standout features of the Birth Center is its commitment to supporting various birth preferences. Whether families are considering a Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC), twins' delivery, or have specific wishes for their delivery experience, the Birth Center is equipped to provide the necessary expertise and emotional support. Dr. Meyer highlights this dedication, stating, “We are committed to creating a safe and supportive environment for VBAC births, empowering women to make informed choices about their delivery experiences.” The medical team is well-versed in the latest practices and guidelines for VBAC, allowing families to feel confident that their individual needs will be met with care and professionalism.

In addition, Dr. Jochims emphasizes the importance of inclusivity, saying, “At the Birth Center, we strive to make all patients and their families feel comfortable and welcome, ensuring that language is never a barrier. We are especially committed to supporting Spanish-speaking mothers, providing resources and care that cater to their needs.” This holistic approach ensures that every family receives compassionate and personalized care throughout their birthing journey.

“The Birth Center doesn’t just focus on the delivery itself; it embraces a holistic approach that covers the entire journey of parenthood. Families can take advantage of a range of services, from prenatal classes that prepare them for labor and delivery to postnatal support that helps them adjust to life with a newborn.” says Ann Polaschek, Spencer Hospital Birth Center Director. “This includes guidance on breastfeeding, infant care, and postpartum recovery, ensuring that both mothers and babies have the resources they need during this transformative time.”

Postnatal care is particularly vital at the Birth Center, as the team provides follow-up appointments to monitor the health of both mother and baby. This ongoing support addresses any concerns that may arise, promoting a smooth transition from the hospital to home. Families can rest assured that they have access to a supportive network even after they leave the Birth Center. Additionally, the Best Care for Better Babies Services complements this postnatal support by offering free resources for pregnant women and parents with children from 0 to 5 years old.

“Our Best Care for Better Babies Services is an invaluable resource for our community,” says Angel Smith, Clay County Public Health Director. “With individualized home visits, developmental screenings, and connections to local resources, we empower families with the knowledge and support they need for a healthy start.” This holistic approach ensures that families are well-equipped to nurture their children's growth and development.

As families prepare to welcome a new member, the Birth Center at Spencer Hospital stands ready to provide expert care and unwavering support. From personalized birth plans that reflect each family's preferences to attentive postnatal care, the team is dedicated to making every step of the journey as smooth and positive as possible.

“Choosing where to start a family is a significant decision, and the Birth Center at Spencer Hospital is here to support families in making this life-changing event as special as possible," said Polaschek. For those interested in scheduling an appointment with one of the skilled and compassionate doctors at Avera Medical Group Spencer, please call (712) 264-3500. The team at Spencer Hospital is ready to help you embrace the joy of new life with expert care and compassionate support.

Enhancing Newborn Respiratory Care

Starting in May 2024, the Respiratory Therapy team at Spencer Hospital introduced Neonatal Hi-Flo and Bubble CPAP machines to assist newborns who need extra care after birth. Remarkably, three babies have been able to stay at Spencer Hospital with their families instead of being transferred to the Avera NICU in Sioux Falls. This initiative was made possible through funding from the Spencer Regional Healthcare Foundation, underscoring the commitment to enhancing quality care, close to home for newborns.