US-based healthcare system University Hospitals has introduced the TeamBirth model across all five of its labour and delivery locations, improving maternity care.

This patient-centred move aims to enhance communication between care providers and expectant families.

Developed by Ariadne Labs, the TeamBirth model emphasises shared decision-making through structured "huddles" at critical moments of the hospital stay.

These include admission, changes in the baby’s or mother’s condition, delivery decisions, and at the request of the patient or care team member.

University Hospitals obstetrician and gynaecologist-in-chief Stephanie Teal said: “Our maternity teams at the five University Hospitals birthing centres strive to put the patient at the centre of the circle of care.

“We are thrilled to implement TeamBirth across our network because it gives us a proven, innovative programme to ensure that we actively listen to the patient’s voice throughout her birth experience. This kind of shared decision-making will help us provide the highest level of safety, equity, and dignity in childbearing.”

The huddles facilitated by the TeamBirth model involve not only medical staff but also the patient's support people such as spouses, partners, or doulas.

This collaborative approach allows for informed decision-making during the process of birthing and accommodates changes in the plan as necessary.

The five birthing centres, which saw the adoption of TeamBirth, include Steve and Loree Potash Women and Newborn Center at UH Ahuja Medical Center, UH Geauga Medical Center, and UH St John Medical Center.

Spearheading the TeamBirth initiative, UH MacDonald Women’s Hospital labour and delivery medical director Tyler Katz said: “Our goal is to keep patients safe, and to provide an exceptional birthing experience, and we believe TeamBirth will enhance our patients’ overall childbirth experience.”

In December 2024, University Hospitals announced the use of the Da Vinci 5 robotic system for surgical procedures.