West Branch is Expecting – Maternity Services Coming 2021

MidMichigan Health is excited to announce the return of maternity services to MidMichigan Medical Center – West Branch in 2021.

“From the beginning of the affiliation discussions, returning maternity care to the West Branch community was a top priority for our leadership, the local board of directors and community members,” said Diane Postler-Slattery, Ph.D., FACHE, president and CEO, MidMichigan Health. “Expanding women’s health services in this area fits nicely with our focus of always putting the patient first and keeping services close to home when possible.”

The more than $2 million improvements and equipment purchases will create a comfortable, state-of the-art, family focused place for women to give birth. The new design features: four labor, delivery, recovery, post-partum (LDRP) suites; three private care rooms, a renovated and newly equipped cesarean-section delivery suite; upgraded nursery; and a new advanced security system for mom and baby.

“The new area will have a comfortable home-like environment,” explained Nicole Gillette, A.D.N., B.S.N., M.S.N., vice president of nursing, MidMichigan Medical Center – West Branch. “Patients will be welcomed by friendly, skilled staff that will be with them throughout their entire labor process ensuring an excellent experience.”

With the return of maternity services, MidMichigan is building upon the many services already in the community to provide comprehensive women’s health services in West Branch. Vickie Bannister, W.H.N.P.-B.C., a board certified nurse practitioner has been caring for women for more than 30 years and returned to her home community in 2017.

“I’m excited to see the maternity services return to provide another key service for women in our area,” said Bannister. “I look forwarded to working with MidMichigan to make this a reality.”

The MidMichigan Health Foundation will launch a fundraising campaign to provide financial support for the new service and to help educate the community on the services available. Those interested in learning more are encouraged to contact Nicole Potter, director, at (989) 343-3694 or email at nicole.potter@midmichigan.org.

In addition to the new Emergency Department and recent facelift at the Medical Center, expanding women’s health services is another example of MidMichigan’s commitment to investing in the community.

“As the county’s largest employer, we are growing and expanding the Medical Center,” said Ray Stover, president of MidMichigan Medical Center in West Branch and Gladwin. “We look forward to continuing to provide excellent care for the entire community and are anxious to welcome the newest residents at the Medical Center next year.”