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OB Services Advocacy
Mounting pressures on obstetrical (OB) services in Pennsylvania have resulted in the closing of 41 hospital obstetrical units and the loss of neonatal intensive care units statewide in the last 14 years. Since 1997, the Delaware Valley has lost 17 obstetrical units—with another unit scheduled to close by July 2009—and has had a net loss of six neonatal intensive care units.
Factors contributing to the crisis include inadequate reimbursement rates, the high cost of medical liability insurance, and the shortage of crucial health professionals. The Philadelphia Department of Public Health and DVHC are working together to improve access to OB services by monitoring OB sentinel health events, evaluating the costs and reimbursements for OB services, and examining the medical liability costs and coverage.
Ensuring access to appropriate prenatal, obstetrics, and post-partum services is an essential investment in the future of the state and region.
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