Trinity Health Of New England Launches Obstetric Emergency Department for Pregnant and Postpartum Patients

Saint Francis Hospital's OB ED provides 24/7 specialized emergency care by board certified OB/GYN providers. 

Located on the Labor and Delivery units at Saint Francis Hospital, in Hartford and Saint Mary’s Hospital, in Waterbury, the OB ED is designed specifically for obstetrical emergencies and pregnancy-related concerns, as well as delivery-related health issues for mothers in the weeks following childbirth. The OB ED model allows patients to bypass the traditional emergency department and receive immediate evaluation by obstetric specialists, reducing wait times, improving care coordination and enhancing safety for both mother and baby.

“The launch of our Obstetric Emergency Department ensures that pregnant and postpartum patients receive immediate access to experienced obstetric providers who understand their unique needs,” said Karianne Silverman, MD, FACOG, Chair, Women & Infants, Trinity Health Of New England. “This model of care improves safety, coordination and peace of mind during what can be an incredibly stressful time.”

The OB ED is staffed by Trinity Health Of New England OB/GYN providers and private OB/GYN physicians, including members of the OB Hospitalist program. Patients benefit from comprehensive evaluations that include fetal heart rate monitoring, diagnostic testing and direct coordination with their primary OB/GYN provider when needed.

Saint Mary's Hospital's OB ED is located on the Labor and Delivery unit and is designed specifically for obstetrical emergencies and pregnancy-related concerns, as well as delivery-related health issues for mothers following childbirth.

“Obstetrics emergencies require specialized expertise and immediate attention,” said Irina Magidina, MD, Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Mary’s Hospital. “The OB ED allows our team to rapidly assess both mom and baby in a setting designed specifically for obstetric care, creating a safer, more efficient experience for patients.” 

Key patient benefits of the OB ED include:

• Onsite obstetrician coverage 24/7, including nights, weekends and holidays when most physician offices are closed

• Evaluation and management of pregnancy-related conditions, labor concerns and early postpartum complications

• Seamless communication and care coordination with a patient’s primary OB/GYN provider

• Comprehensive review of medical tests and continuous fetal monitoring

• Improved patient safety and satisfaction with reduced emergency room admissions

Visits to the OB ED typically last two to three hours and include a nursing assessment followed by evaluation by a board-certified OB/GYN provider. Based on the findings, patients are either admitted for further care or safely discharged home. Patients are encouraged to contact their OB provider before coming to the hospital whenever possible.  For more information visit: https://www.trinityhealthofne.org/obed