For Immediate Release

For more information, contact:
Gloria O'Connell, 612-863-4801

Like a proud parent, Allina's Buffalo Hospital shows off new birth center

BUFFALO, Minn. 07/13/2010--The public is invited to celebrate Buffalo Hospital’s new Birth Center Saturday, July 31 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 303 Catlin Street. A free open house will include tours of the new Birth Center, family activities such as face painting, live music, refreshments and health information.

The new Birth Center is designed to nurture the mind, body and spirit. "Physical space affects healing, recovery and bonding between parents and babies," says Jennifer Emery, MD, Buffalo Hospital’s Obstetrics-Gynecology Department chair. "We needed a new space to go along with our high-quality staff. Now we have it."

The new center is four times larger than the old facility and features extra amenities and comforts of home. Families and visitors have access to two large family lounges, and each piece of artwork was selected to produce a soothing, healing atmosphere.

"The nursing staff played a critical role in the design and layout of the center to create a wonderful experience for families, as well as to ensure safety and easy access to any medical supplies they may need," said Birth Center manager Cindy Oquist, RN.

The spacious labor and delivery rooms are equipped with state-of-the art technology. Each postpartum room has a soaking tub, rocking chair, flat screen TV and DVD player, iPod docking station, refrigerator and locally created artwork. The rooms also are equipped to allow babies to stay in the room with moms for doctor exams.

There are two nurseries, including an expanded Level II nursery for babies needing extra care. This expanded Level II nursery allows the hospital to maintain and provide care for babies born up to eight weeks early, allowing families the convenience of staying close to home. Buffalo Hospital also partners with Minnesota Neonatal Physicians and Children’s Hospitals and Clinic to provide more specialized care when needed.

Breastfeeding is highlighted with a dedicated lactation room. Plus, internationally board-certified lactation specialists work with moms to establish successful breastfeeding experiences.

"Another wonderful feature we are excited about is the new chime system," says Oquist. "When a baby is born, a lullaby will play throughout the hospital, letting everyone know we have welcomed a new baby."

The Birth Center is a $7.1 million investment. Allina Hospitals & Clinics is funding $6.1 million with Buffalo Hospital Foundation’s goal of raising $1 million. To date, the Foundation has raised more than $800,000. "We’re absolutely astounded at the support that our community has given us," says Buffalo Hospital Foundation executive director Karla Heeter. "'Thank you' hardly seems enough."

About Buffalo Hospital

Part of Allina Hospitals & Clinics, Buffalo Hospital is a not-for-profit regional medical center committed to providing exceptional care and improving the health of the communities it serves in and around Wright County Minnesota.