Baptist Health-Fort Smith offers a new service to help moms-to-be prepare for childbirth and their hospital stay.
The birth concierge program is organized by Megan Williams, a Lamaze International-certified childbirth educator. She was recently promoted to the role of birth navigator for the Women’s and Children’s unit at Baptist Health-Fort Smith. In this role, Williams will meet with perspective parents who plan to deliver their babies at Baptist Health-Fort Smith to help them:
- Pre-register for delivery and sign-up for Baptist Health MyChart online
- Register for free childbirth and breastfeeding classes at Baptist Health-Fort Smith
- Connect with a financial counselor, if needed
- Discuss the mother’s birth plan
- Review hospital and unit policies for a significant other, siblings and visitation
- Receive a tour of the Labor and Delivery and Postpartum units
The overall goal of the birth concierge program is to improve the patient experience by increasing access to services that the mom may need and providing thorough education on what to expect on delivery day.
“One of my focuses is helping women make informed decisions about their care and knowing what their options are so they can have open discussions with their physicians about one of the most important days in their lives,” Williams said.
In addition to her duties a birth navigator, Williams teaches monthly childbirth classes. The classes are free and open to all area moms-to-be. Williams was a preschool teacher prior to joining the Women’s and Children’s unit at Baptist Health-Fort Smith. When the opportunity arose to teach childbirth classes and help expectant women navigate the birth process, she knew it was a perfect way to combine her experience and her passion.
“While working at Baptist Health, I developed a passion for helping moms through the childbirth process and educating them on ways to achieve the outcome that is best for them,” Williams said. “I love teaching moms about Lamaze and the various birthing techniques available to alleviate pain and reduce stress.”
In addition to her role at Baptist Health-Fort Smith, Williams is currently studying to be a nurse. She and her husband have two children and are also foster parents.
To learn more about the birth concierge service or to schedule an appointment, call (479) 441-5694. To see a full list of dates and times for childbirth and breastfeeding education classes, visit Baptist-health.com click on “Classes and Resources.”
