A Patient-Centered Approach to the Birth Experience

What is TeamBirth?

The TeamBirth approach focuses on shared decision-making. The model incorporates structured “huddles” at critical points during the birthing person’s hospital stay – upon admission, during changes in the mother’s or baby’s condition, during delivery decisions, and whenever requested by the patient or a care team member. In addition to the patient and medical staff, the huddles include the patient’s chosen support people, such as spouses, partners, family members or doulas.

During these check-ins, the team will discuss patient preferences and labor progress, make changes to care plans and schedule the next huddle. Every member of the team is given a chance to express their opinions and concerns as decisions about care are made together.

The TeamBirth model was developed by Ariadne Labs – a joint center of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

Benefits of the TeamBirth Approach

The maternity team at each UH birthing center strives to put the patient at the center of every care decision. TeamBirth is a proven approach that ensures that the patient’s voice is heard throughout the entire birth experience. This empowers patient to become active participants in their care and advocate for themselves at every step in the birthing process.

With its emphasis on improved communication between patients, families and medical staff, TeamBirth helps prevent breakdowns in communication that can result in patient harm, complications or other safety issues.

Where is TeamBirth Offered?

TeamBirth is now the standard of care at all UH birthing center locations:

• UH Cleveland Medical Center
• UH Ahuja Medical Center
• UH Geauga Medical Center
• UH St. John Medical Center
• UH Tripoint Medical Center