SUBMITTED
The Perth and Smiths Falls District Hospital (the “Hospital”) is delighted to welcome Lauren Tignanelli as its first hospital-based midwife. This addition aims to enhance maternal and infant health outcomes in the community by providing personalized care options for expectant patients and birthing persons.
Lauren joined the Hospital earlier this summer with plans to work as the first full-time midwife starting in September 2024. She will work with the Obstetricians and participate with the weekly Obstetrical Clinic so that expectant birthing persons can become familiar with her along with other providers.
She will also provide support as part of the postpartum program. Every patient who delivers at the Hospital will receive regular postpartum visits from her until six (6) weeks postpartum. These visits will support the birthing person with assessments on the patient and baby, weight checks, breastfeeding support, PAPs, and contraceptive care/counselling.
“The addition of Lauren to the obstetrical program is a fantastic step in the right direction for interdisciplinary care. Our hospital is always looking for ways to grow and develop services available for new and expectant community members,” stated Homayra Mostamandi, Chief Nursing Executive.
The midwife services are rooted in the Hospital’s Patient & Family Centred Care philosophy which supports the informed choices of patients and their families. Expectant birthing persons will be provided with alternate care options throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum period along with newborn care.
Lauren shared that her values and vision of a midwifery program align with that of the Hospital. “It was a natural fit for the services that I will offer, and I look forward to working with not only the Obstetrical Team but all members.” She added that, “the Hospital Team has embraced my services and my vision and goals recognizing the benefits for its patient population.”
Dr. Cecilia Kerner, Clinical Chief of Obstetrics is pleased about the new addition and the support for families stating that, “we are committed to providing the best possible care to our community, and the addition of midwifery services is a significant step towards enhancing our obstetrics services. By offering a more holistic and patient-centered approach, we hope to improve health outcomes for birthing persons and babies in our communities.”