At a time when many hospitals across the nation are closing maternity wards, Florida Hospital, as part of its larger $100 million expansion project, announced it would invest $20 million into birthing and pediatric services at its facility in Orange City, Fla., according to The Daytona Beach News-Journal.
The proposed maternity ward at Orange City-based Florida Hospital Fish Memorial will house 20 beds and will fill a void for birthing services in the area. According to hospital officials, many pregnant women are forced to travel to facilities in Orlando, Fla., or Daytona Beach, Fla., to deliver their babies. This will provide them with a more local option.
Construction on the four-story, $20 million tower for birthing and pediatric services is expected to begin in May 2018.
Once completed, the entire $20 million project is expected to add 50 beds to Florida Hospital Fish Memorial.
The hospital is partnering with the Florida Women's Center, a Florida Hospital-affiliated medical group with multiple locations around Florida, to provide the services.