Hardin Medical Center Women’s Center chosen as one of six TeamBirth hospitals in Tennessee

SAVANNAH, TN – October 2, 2024 – Hardin Medical Center (HMC) Women’s Center has been selected as one of only six hospitals in Tennessee to implement the innovative TeamBirth program. Launching at HMC on October 2, 2024, TeamBirth is designed to improve maternal care by ensuring that patients and clinicians are  aligned in shared decision-making throughout the childbirth process. 

Developed by Ariadne Labs, a joint center for health systems innovation at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, TeamBirth uses structured communication strategies to  create a unified birthing experience. The core of the program is the use of team huddles at critical decision  points, including hospital admission, changes in patient or baby condition, and key moments during labor.  Huddles can also be initiated by the patient or any team member, ensuring everyone remains informed and  engaged. 

These team huddles bring together the patient, caregivers (such as doulas or family members), and labor and  delivery staff to discuss the birth plan and patient preferences. The goal is to create an environment of shared decision-making, empowering the patient and fostering collaboration between the healthcare team and the  person giving birth. Additionally, communication boards are installed in each patient’s room, providing real-time updates on care plans and progress. 

“It’s been an exciting journey working with Ariadne Labs to bring TeamBirth to Hardin Medical Center,” said Jane Anna Cummings, Director of HMC Women’s Center. “We are committed to placing birthing patients at the center of the process, ensuring they feel respected and heard before, during, and after delivery.” 

Hardin Medical Center now joins an elite group of six hospitals in Tennessee offering TeamBirth, with the closest facility over 125 miles away. Other participating hospitals include Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women (Memphis), Regional One Health (Memphis), Ascension St. Thomas Midtown (Nashville), TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center (Nashville), and the University of Tennessee Medical Center (Knoxville). 

“We are honored and humbled to be a TeamBirth hospital,” said Cummings, who, alongside HMC CEO Jim  Edmondson, visited three TeamBirth hospitals in Oklahoma earlier this year. “It was inspiring to see the impact of the program firsthand, and we’re excited to bring this level of care to our community.” 

Jim Edmondson, CEO of Hardin Medical Center, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to fostering communication and teamwork. “At HMC, we want all patients and their clinicians to feel empowered to make informed decisions throughout labor and delivery. With TeamBirth, we’re creating an environment where patients are truly heard and supported from the moment they arrive. We are honored to be part of this select  group of hospitals in Tennessee.” 

TeamBirth has been rigorously tested through Ariadne Labs’ Delivery Decisions Initiative, a global research and social impact program focused on improving childbirth care. In one trial, 90% of clinicians recommended TeamBirth, and nearly 80% of patients reported that their preferences made a difference in their care. 

“All individuals deserve a safe and dignified birthing experience,” said Amber Weiseth, DNP, MSN, RNC-OB,  Director of the Delivery Decisions Initiative at Ariadne Labs. “TeamBirth is an evidence-based approach that  ensures the patient’s voice is central to every decision during labor and delivery. We are excited to see this  model expand and improve care for patients across the country.” 

About Hardin Medical Center 

Since 1952, Hardin Medical Center has been a trusted healthcare provider, committed to delivering safe, quality, and compassionate care to the community. The introduction of the TeamBirth program further  strengthens Hardin Medical Center’s dedication to patient-centered care. To learn more about Hardin Medical  Center and the TeamBirth program, visit HardinMedicalCenter.org or call 731-926-8000. 

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