OB Hospitalist Services

Winter Haven Women's Hospital offers a special service for mothers delivering their babies with us. This service provides an OB doctor in the hospital around-the-clock.

The doctor who is always available for our patients in this way is called an OB Hospitalist. This doctor does not see patients in a private practice—only in the hospital. Having a doctor skilled in care of the OB patient always in-house at Winter Haven Women's Hospital has many very important advantages.

The OB Hospitalist is immediately available throughout the day and night. He or she is there to examine patients, evaluate the progress of labor, check lab results, and provide a safe delivery. There is no delay, which can occur when a doctor travels from the office to the hospital.

Changes may occur very quickly during labor and birth. If an emergency should occur, the OB Hospitalist is already on the scene, ready to respond. A doctor full-time in labor and delivery increases the level of safety for mother and baby.

The OB Hospitalist is very skilled in all types of deliveries. They may at times be able to use a variety of techniques that may help spare the patient a C/section that is not required.

Extra Care

Another benefit of the OB Hospitalist Program is that the doctor is readily available at the hospital whenever the patient or family has questions. The doctor can help explain what is happening during labor and what is planned for the mother’s care. Getting information and having questions answered as they arise is very reassuring to the patient and family.

The OB Hospitalist is also talking with and working with others on the health care team who are helping take care of mom and baby. This includes the nurses, other OB doctors, the baby’s doctor, and the doctor who gives anesthesia. This availability and teamwork means that delays in care can be prevented.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that there is an OB doctor in Winter Haven Women's Hospital at all times is very reassuring to patients and families. We offer the OB Hospitalist Program because the safety of you and your baby is our number one priority.

Who is a hospitalist?

A hospitalist is a doctor who specializes in caring for patients while they are in the hospital. Most do not have their own private practice in an office setting. The OB hospitalist is an obstetrician who cares for patients only in the hospital, and is an important part of the OB team of specialized nurses, doctors, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare providers, who will take care of you and your baby.

The OB hospitalist team will:

  • Assess and manage your labor and birth
  • Establish a relationship with you and your family
  • Coordinate your hospital care, including diagnostic tests such as lab tests, sonograms, or other procedures
  • Communicate with other members of the healthcare team to ensure the best possible care during your birth and postpartum experience.