Here are three things to know about the decision.
1. St. Charles Madras temporarily stopped delivering babies July 10, 2015, due to a staffing shortage. The hospital had planned to have the situation resolved within 30 days. However, the diversion continued due to the ongoing nurse shortage.
2. Now, St. Charles Madras has worked to address the issues faced by the labor and delivery unit. According to a news release, the hospital hired a new obstetrics nurse manager, Tammy Wilson; secured the services of 11 labor and delivery nurses; started exploring the possibility of a fellowship program to train system nurses who are interested in a career in labor and delivery; completed a market analysis of St. Charles Madras nursing wages and decided to provide a market adjustment to stay competitive; and planned to form an obstetrics safety and quality steering committee to oversee clinical quality and education.
3. Jeanie Gentry, St. Charles Madras and St. Charles Prineville (Ore.) CEO, said of the decision, “We know the closure of our family birthing center was an inconvenience for our patients and providers. We’ve appreciated the community’s support and patience during this time, and look forward to once again offering our obstetrical services Jan. 25.”
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