At Kittitas Valley Healthcare, we believe that every birth story deserves care that’s not only safe and skilled, but deeply personal because life’s most meaningful moments should be met with compassion, clarity, and connection. That’s why we’re proud to announce our participation in TeamBirth, a nationally recognized initiative designed to improve communication and safety during labor, delivery, and postpartum care.
What Is TeamBirth?
TeamBirth is a best-practices program developed by Ariadne Labs, a health systems innovation center at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. In collaboration with the Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA), the program is now being implemented in hospitals across the state, including here at KVH.
The core idea behind TeamBirth is simple yet transformative: make sure everyone involved in a birth, the patient, their support team, and clinical staff—is on the same page. The program formalizes “huddles” at key points during the hospital stay, such as admission, any significant changes in condition, or when important care decisions are being made. These huddles take place in the patient’s room and are anchored by a shared whiteboard that clearly outlines care plans, preferences, and updates.
Why This Matters
Childbirth is deeply personal. It’s also unpredictable. By implementing TeamBirth, we’re creating a system where patients are heard and supported, and where care teams are aligned every step of the way. The program promotes shared decision-making and empowers the person giving birth to be an informed, active participant in their care.
We’re excited to join 11 other hospitals across Washington in this latest rollout—representing the fourth cohort of hospitals bringing TeamBirth to our communities. Since the program’s introduction in 2023, 38 hospitals in Washington and Oregon have already adopted the model. The goal: to achieve 100% adoption across Washington’s birthing hospitals by the end of 2025.
Looking Ahead
KVH’s participation in TeamBirth underscores our long-standing commitment to high-quality, patient-centered maternity care. It’s a step forward in ensuring that every family we serve feels safe, respected, and supported from their first contraction to their baby’s first cry.
We are honored to be part of this movement and look forward to sharing more about the program’s impact in the months to come.
Reference: Fourth Cohort of Washington Hospitals launching TeamBirth to improve communication, safety throughout labor and birth (by: WHSA)