WakeMed brings specialized care to women, families of north Raleigh
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- If you live or work in the North Raleigh area, you've likely noticed a flurry of activity at the growing WakeMed North Healthplex Campus.
WakeMed is close to finishing Wake County's first and only Women's Hospital.
Right now, they're still putting the finishing touches on the inside of the Women's Hospital at WakeMed North.
When it's finished the nearly 249,000 square foot, 61-bed hospital will cater to women and families. One major difference patients will notice is that it will have more of a hotel vibe.
"We want an environment that's warm, open and inviting--that creates an experience for mom and family that they will remember," Administrative Vice President Sheri De Shazo said.
They said they plan to do that with lots of light, lots of texture on the walls, modern-looking restrooms and even an outdoor terrace. That doesn't even include some of the special services they'll provide.
"We'll have some special amenities for mom like in-room massages, manicures and pedicures and dry cleaning services," De Shazo explained.
They'll also have the latest in high tech medical equipment, although much of it will be tucked away till it's needed.
"For instance, this is the delivery cart," said Executive Medical Director Seth Brody, M.D., while demonstrating to ABC11. "So everything your OB would need to deliver, there would be a cart in here which we wheel out for delivery but in the meantime it's hidden away nicely."
If you come in to deliver your baby but your doctor hasn't made it there yet, not to worry, WakeMed North has that covered, too, through something called "the laborist model." This model ensures that there is a group of OB/GYN's at the hospital at all times.
"They can help assist your doctor, if they need help, or if your doctor is unavailable for any reason they're here every day, every minute," Dr. Brody said.
With that staff on hand, WakeMed officials say this model will enhance patient safety and improve overall outcomes for both mom and baby.
The Women's Hospital opens this May, which is in addition to the existing emergency department, medical imaging, and outpatient services also located at the North Healthplex.
