For Immediate Release
June 22, 2007
Contact: Donna Sellmann
(732) 530-2282
dsellmann@meridianhealth.com

RIVERVIEW EXPERTS OFFER TIPS TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT DOCTOR WHEN PREPARING TO HAVE A BABY

Ask questions to select the right obstetrician for your pregnancy journey

Red Bank, NJ - Major life decisions deserve thorough research and evaluation, and selecting the right obstetrician as you start a family is no different. If you're getting ready to become pregnant or suspect that you might be pregnant, you should make sure you choose a doctor that you are comfortable with for the long journey ahead.

Your obstetrician will be by your side for the next nine months, so take the time to meet with and select the person you think will be best for the job. Talk to friends and family for recommendations, consult with your family physician for referrals, and even research doctors in your area using online databases.

"Prior to meeting with a doctor, consider what is important to you during your pregnancy and delivery," recommends Marilyn Loh-Collado, M.D., chairperson of the department of Obstetrics/Gynecology at Riverview Medical Center. "Be sure that your ideas fit with the physician's practice. Ask questions that can help you understand a physician's qualifications, philosophies, and birth practices, and then make the best decision for you and your family."

First, decide what type of practice will be right for you. Some physicians practice alone, while others are part of a small group, and some are part of a large group. Dr. Loh-Collado suggests doing your research, and then asking the following questions:

- What is your general philosophy concerning pregnancy and birth?
- Who is responsible for me if you're not available?
- How do I get emergency care after office hours?
- Who will see me for my checkups?
- At which hospitals do you deliver?
- What is your philosophy on pain relief during labor?

Once you've selected the right doctor, check out the hospitals where she/he can deliver your baby. Call to see if the hospital will provide a tour and ask questions.

- What types of classes do they offer for childbirth? Breastfeeding? Siblings? Grandparents?
- Are the rooms private or semi-private?
- Who can be in the room during the delivery, and what is the visitation policy?
- Where can your partner stay/sleep if you are in labor for a long time?

At Riverview Medical Center, prospective moms are welcome to schedule a consultation and tour of the Childbirth Center. The maternity unit features private suites in a homelike setting, an experienced and caring nursing staff, a secure and safe unit, and visiting hours that accommodate the entire family. The medical center offers childbirth preparation classes and education such as breastfeeding, CPR awareness and newborn care to prepare for bringing a new baby home. The medical center also features a Laborist Program, where an experienced, board-certified obstetrician is on site to care for women until their regular obstetrician arrives at the hospital.

Riverview offers a free physician referral service and can help individuals find an obstetrician, fertility specialist or pediatrician for any special need that might arise. For more information or to schedule a tour of the Childbirth Center, call 1-800-560-9990.

Riverview Medical Center, a member of the Meridian Health Family, is a non-profit community hospital located in Red Bank, New Jersey, providing health care programs and services in all major medical disciplines, including maternity; oncology; orthopedics and rehabilitation; general, neuro, thoracic and vascular surgery; cardiology; renal dialysis; diabetes management; and emergency and critical care services. Riverview's Booker Cancer Center is an affiliate of the renowned Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, and Riverview is home to the only fully accredited acute comprehensive inpatient rehabilitation center in Monmouth County. In addition, its Women Center and Childbirth Center specialize in the full spectrum of needs for the body, mind and spirit. For more information about Riverview Medical Center and Meridian Health, please call the Meridian Health Line at 1-800-560-9990 or visit www.riverviewmedicalcenter.com.

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