W. Va. Perinatal Provider Census
In
order to fulfill an unmet need in West Virginia, the Partnership is
undertaking to establish a one-source online index of in-state perinatal
health providers. We will be creating a database of
obstetrician-gynecologists, hospitals providing OB services, birthing
centers, perinatal health programs, etc.
For the last few decades there has been speculation regarding the number of obstetrical providers in West Virginia. In addition, organizations and individuals have reported that West Virginia has an obstetrical provider-shortage. Several groups reported varying estimates of the number of providers providing prenatal care and delivery services. After hearing as many as three different estimates reported by the press or members of State government, the 1992 Statewide Perinatal Task Force systematically determined an accurate number of obstetricians, family-practice physicians, and certified nurse-midwives who were routinely delivering babies and/or providing prenatal care.
Using similar methodology, the West Virginia Perinatal Partnership conducted studies of the numbers of obstetrical providers in 2006 and 2010. See 2010 WV Birth Attendant Study. Additional research on the history of maternity facilities in WV and provider shortage areas is summarized in a PowerPoint Presentation entitled History of Maternity Providers and Facilities in West Virginia Since 1976.