Ten more hospitals are joining the final cohort of TeamBirth, a nationally recognized program that puts patients at the center of their birthing experience. Launching the week of Oct. 27, this initiative strengthens communication and trust between care teams and patients, ensuring every voice is heard from admission to discharge.

The TeamBirth model was developed by Ariadne Labs, a joint center for health systems innovation at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

At the heart of TeamBirth are structured “huddles,” which are brief, purposeful meetings that occur at key moments during a patient’s hospital stay. These huddles take place upon admission, during any significant changes in the patient’s or baby’s condition, when delivery decisions are made and at any request from a patient or team member. The goal is to keep everyone aligned and informed, especially the person giving birth.  

Huddles include hospital staff, the patient and their chosen support team, such as a partner, doula or family member. Together, they review the birth plan, discuss preferences and make decisions collaboratively. This approach empowers patients to be active participants in their care and helps ensure   their values and goals guide the birthing process.  

The statewide rollout of TeamBirth is a joint effort between WSHA and Ariadne Labs, with generous support from Ballmer Group. Hospitals participating in the fifth cohort include:  

  • Trios Women’s & Children’s Hospital 
  • Harbor Regional Health 
  • Mid-Valley Hospital 
  • MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital 
  • Olympic Medical Center 
  • Pullman Regional Hospital 
  • VMFH St Joseph Medical Center 
  • Samaritan Healthcare 
  • And Oregon sites: Hillsboro Medical Center and Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) 

With the addition of these hospitals, Washington moves closer to statewide adoption of TeamBirth by the end of 2025. Through structured collaboration and patient-centered care, TeamBirth is transforming the birthing experience.

Jenica Sandall
Director, Clinical Excellence, Safe Deliveries Roadmap
Jenicas@wsha.org