Sentara invests $3M to remodel birthing unit

Published 2:17 pm Saturday, January 16, 2021

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Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital will start construction this month on a new mother, baby and family unit that will transform the experience moms and families have when delivering their baby.

The new space will ensure that the birth experience and first days as a mother include the highest quality care in a state-of-the-art unit that provides a safe, supportive environment for the new family.

“This remodel will provide our patients and community with a modern state-of-the-art LDRP unit,” Brian Zwoyer, president of Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital said. “We recognize the importance of comprehensive Women’s Health at Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital and the communities we serve. We are excited to embark on this journey.”

In the past, it was common for moms to move between rooms as they check in at one location, deliver in a separate room, and recover in a third. But now, new mothers and their family members will be able to stay in one place throughout the process, allowing them to settle in and get comfortable as they welcome their bundle of joy into the world.

This unit is equipped with the necessary tools and supplies to care for mother and baby before, during, and after the birth. Most of the time, the baby will get to remain in the room with the mother instead of being taken to the nursery.

“The renovation of the rooms to accommodate LDRP is a much anticipated improvement that will enhance our patients’ experience,” Dr. William Rosche, OBGYN, said.

While receiving maternity care at Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital, patients have access to highly experienced staff and advanced equipment. The purpose of the LDRP unit is to give the new family a chance to get comfortable, connect with each other and adjust to the changes a baby brings.

“This renovation will bring our unit into the 21st century. It will promote family bonding in a tranquil environment” Dr. Joni Abbott, OBGYN, said .

“This renovation aligns with the Sentara mission, ‘We improve health every day.’ We look forward to seeing the completed renovation in the fall of 2021,” Zwoyer said.