Rob Olson
Community Hospital in Bellingham, Washington
Title: The Past, Present and Future of OBGYN Hospitalists in the United States
Biography
Biography: Rob Olson
Abstract
Women admitted into labor and delivery in the United States are traditionally attended by registered nurses while the physician is located either in their offices or at home. The physician is called in only when complications have presented themselves on the pregnant mother and unborn child at the time of delivery. Frequently, complications happen unpredictably and quickly and it is difficult for the nurse to judge when the physician should arrive for the actual delivery. Predictably, the safety and quality of care provided to the mother and unborn baby is compromised unnecessarily. OBGYN Hospitalists are Board Certified physicians who physically stay in labor and delivery on 24/7 rotating shifts. OBGYN Hospitalists are able to immediately begin treatment for health complications such as postpartum hemorrhage as well as to be present for the delivery if the attending physician does not arrive in time. Statistics have proven the markedly improved safety and quality of care provided to women in labor. This lecture will illustrate the short history and present conditions of OBGYN hospitalists in the United States and predict the future. Conclusion & Significance: In the United States alone, there are on average 4,000,000 births per year. While the United States is considered a developed country, the United States has one of the developed world’s highest maternal morbidity and mortality rates. This presentation will provide facts and data on why and how OBGYN hospitalists are able to lower maternal mortality rates, reduce morbidity, improve fetal outcomes, and the overall safety and quality in women’s healthcare.