Joint Base Andrews –
In February 2010, Malcolm Grow Medical Center partnered with the Southern Maryland Hospital Center for obstetric and gynecologic (OB/GYN) services. Inpatient OB/GYN procedures, including full service inpatient obstetric care for expectant mothers, will be provided by MGMC health care professionals using facilities at SMHC.
Due to the Base and Realignment Commission decision, the inpatient capability for overnight stay will no longer be available at MGMC as of September 2011. Partnering with SMHC in advance of this date "will allow us to preserve these capabilities and offer enhanced full service OB/GYN care for military beneficiaries," notes Maj. Gen. Gar Graham, commander for 79th Medical Wing.
"It is indeed a privilege to be of service to the women and families of Joint Base Andrews. SMHC is ready to assist expectant mothers with their childbirth experience in a caring, warm, and highly professional setting," said Michael Chiaramonte, CEO of SMHC.
Leiutenant Col. Kathryn Tate, commander of the 779th Surgical Operations Squadron, explains that outpatient OB/GYN services will continue to be provided at MGMC. This includes prenatal care, well-women care, specialty GYN Consult appointments, same day surgery and fetal testing. Expectant mothers will receive their routine prenatal care and Air Force military and civilian obstetric and gynecologic providers. "And when it is time for delivery, an Air Force provider will be at Southern Maryland for the birth of the baby and any other inpatient obstetric services that may be required," said Colonel Tate.
SMHC is a full service medical center, recognized for its center of excellence in maternal and child health. The center has eight labor and delivery rooms and 16 postpartum rooms to provide a comfortable environment. When needed, operating rooms dedicated to OB care are located on the unit for Cesarean births or special procedures. Additionally, SMHC has a Level II Special Care Nursery (on site) capable of providing high- risk newborn care to infants delivered as early as 32 weeks of gestation.
"We are proud to be of service to the women and men of the United States Air Force, and we will do everything in our power to make these special patients feel comfortable, safe and loved." said Mr. Chiaramonte.