Baptist Medical Center Beaches Maternity Unit Celebrates 10 Years
More Than 7,600 Babies Delivered Since 1997

Jacksonville, Florida, September 7, 2007 -- Last month marked the 10-year anniversary of the Baptist Medical Center Beaches maternity unit.

The original eight-bed maternity suites were designed in 1997 with spacious, family-friendly rooms, large private bathrooms and unique amenities.

Although intended for the delivery of low-risk pregnancies, the entire staff of physicians, anesthesiologists, nurses and technicians was trained to handle obstetrical and neonatal emergencies. During the first month, nearly 50 babies were delivered, and by the end of the year, the number had grown to more than 500.

An eight-bed addition in 2001 also included a courtyard for patients and families, and additional operating room for Caesarean sections. A number of new obstetricians and other health care professionals joined the medical and nursing staff, and it is anticipated that nearly 1,000 babies will be delivered in 2007.

Over the past 10 years, Baptist Beaches maternity services has advanced in technology that includes paperless electronic documentation and patient-controlled labor pain management. A lactation consultant counsels new mothers before discharge, and the Baptist Beaches boasts the highest breastfeeding rates in the city, according to the Breastfeeding Coalition of Northeast Florida.

Internet access for patients is provided in each of 16 maternity suites, as well as in the family waiting areas.

Six of the "First Groupers," the name given to those caregivers who opened the unit, along with two of the original obstetricians, continue to deliver babies at Baptist Beaches today.