Premier Health said the change is due to “tremendous growth” in the need for other health services at the hospital, including orthopedic and spine care, oncology and cardiology services, and emergency or trauma care.
During the pandemic, Miami Valley Hospital South saw a significant increase in demand for those and other services, said Mike Uhl, president of Miami Valley Hospital.
That demand has not abated.
“While this was a difficult decision, it was clear that all our patients — and the community as a whole — would be best served if we transitioned obstetrics care to Miami Valley Hospital’s main campus,” Uhl said in an email response to questions.
About five of every six births at Premier Health already occur at Miami Valley Hospital’s main Dayton campus, he said.
Miami Valley Hospital South delivers two to three babies each day, on average, Uhl also said.
“We strive to ensure a positive birthing experience for every family, and we will work closely to ensure a smooth transition to another Premier Health hospital for patients who had anticipated delivery at Miami Valley Hospital South on July 1 or after in their personal birth plan,” he said.
Obstetric services will continue to be provided at the Miami Valley Hospital main campus in Dayton.
The health network said it will guarantee positions for all affected employees, who will be able to move to similar roles with the same shifts elsewhere in Premier Health.
The Berry Women’s Center at Dayton’s Miami Valley Hospital is newly remodeled and has a longstanding strong reputation for obstetrics and newborn care, Uhl said.
“Especially in today’s health care environment, cost-effectiveness must be at the table as every decision is made, alongside a commitment to ensure high-quality care to our patients and to support our caregivers and support personnel,” he said.
