Episcopal Health Services (EHS) has unveiled a pioneering Centering Pregnancy program, marking a significant milestone in the Rockaways‘ healthcare landscape.
This groundbreaking initiative, integrated into the Obstetrics and Gynecology department at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital at 327 Beach 19th St., offers comprehensive prenatal care and childbirth education to expectant mothers.
The Centering Pregnancy program groups expectant mothers by their gestational period, allowing them to attend provider-led meetings that cover various wellness topics. This approach fosters mutual support and a strong sense of community among participants.
According to the Centering Healthcare Institute, the program has proven highly effective in reducing racial disparities in preterm births. Mothers in the program also report positive outcomes, including healthier babies and improved readiness for labor, delivery, and infant care.
Dr. Jacqueline Marecheau, Chairperson of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, highlighted the program’s holistic approach, saying, “Our Centering Pregnancy program focuses not only on the physical health of the mother but also her emotional well-being. By bringing together expectant mothers due around the same time, the program promotes a sense of community, enhancing self-confidence and leading to improved birth outcomes.”
In addition to educational resources and support, participants will receive a Centering Pregnancy Passport to document their pregnancy journey, including healthcare visits and individual care decisions.
The introduction of the Centering Pregnancy program underscores EHS’s commitment to advancing healthcare services in the community and ensuring the well-being of expectant mothers and their newborns in the Rockaways.
Click here for further information about the Centering Pregnancy program and Episcopal Health Services.
