WASHINGTON LAUDS DECISION TO KEEP OBSTETRICAL UNIT OPEN


Washington

          PHILADELPHIA, May 24: State Sen. LeAnna M. Washington (D-Philadelphia/Montgomery) today applauded Chestnut Hill Health System (CHHS) officials’ decision to continue to provide care to expectant moms and newborns in Eastern Montgomery County and Northwest Philadelphia at the Chestnut Hill Hospital.

          “I am very happy that Chestnut Hill Health System officials have seen the importance of keeping the Obstetrics Unit of Chestnut Hill Hospital open,” Washington said.  “With so many Philadelphia hospitals choosing to discontinue obstetrical services, our area mothers are finding it difficult to get the care they need.

          “It is my hope that the Obstetrics Unit of Chestnut Hill hospital remains open to give these mothers a place to go for quality care.”

          Senator Washington has kept up a strong dialogue with CHHS and Chestnut Hill Hospital in an effort to keep the Obstetrics Unit open.

          Recently, an obstetrical program review committee with representatives from Chestnut Hill Hospital and the University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS) met for several weeks to review the obstetrics program and evaluate its future operations. After thoughtful deliberation—and careful consideration of the hospital’s financial and operational realities—the review committee and hospital management have developed a strategy to continue the OB program.

          Washington said that the strategy includes consolidation of the OB/Gyn physician practices to two locations from the current four. The Hospital and its affiliated physicians will continue to be an option for women seeking prenatal, obstetrical and postpartum care.

          Washington added that Neonatologists from Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia will provide well-baby care, and continue special care for babies in the fully equipped Level II intensive care nursery.

          “The Obstetrics Unit of Chestnut Hill Hospital is an integral resource to the community and there is much support for keeping the unit open and functioning for many years to come,” Washington said.  “I will continue to work with CHHS and my colleagues in the Senate to find ways to fund this important medical service.”