Obstetric clinic now open on McChord

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Kirsten Wicker
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  A fully operational obstetric clinic opened Nov. 1 at the McChord medical Clinic here to provide quality pre-natal care up to the time of delivery for pregnant Airmen and their family members. 

"The clinic is designed to provide quality care with the same caregiver throughout the duration of pregnancy, up to the time of delivery right here," said Army Lt. Col. Kristie Lowry, officer-in-charge. "Madigan Army Medical Center at Fort Lewis handles the actual delivery and any emergencies that may come up while the patient is pregnant." 

The process begins with a blood test to confirm pregnancy, she said. 

"If the blood test comes back positive, we schedule an initial appointment with our registered nurse," said Colonel Lowry. 

During the hour-long, intial appointment, registered nurse Cyndi Mellor discusses topics such as nutrition and genetic counseling, orders any additional blood tests and schedules monthly appointments throughout the duration of the pregnancy. She also provides information about pregnancy, what to expect and how to stay healthy. 

"Initial appointments are used as a time to educate and discuss any concerns with the patient," said the 20-year labor and delivery veteran nurse. "McChord is fortunate to have a quiet, low-stress environment where we are able to give quality time and attention to the patient throughout the entire pregnancy." 

The clinic remains functional for acute issues such as colds and pregnancy discomfort, but routine care is key to a healthy pregnancy, she said. 

The staff has an ultrasound and fetal stress equipment machines used to monitor a baby's heart beat and other vital signs. 

The state-of-the-art equipment is just a part of the quality, patient-focused care the staff at the clinic are so passionate about. The clinic is staffed by a civilian board-certified physician, a civilian registered nurse and an active duty nurse practitioner. Appointments can be made through a TRICARE telephone representative. 

"The women's health staff are pleased to be able to offer high quality, individual pre-natal care for all our eligible Air Force recipients," said Dr. Lee Artman, head of the obstetrics and gynecology clinic here. "Our dedicated staff of highly-trained and motivated individuals are here to serve." 

The former Navy doctor has combined military and civilian medical experience of nearly 35 years. 

"Our goal is to provide this care on a timely basis, with readily available access to our staff," he said. "We still work very closely with Madigan once it's time to deliver, but patients now have the benefit of basic prenatal care right here on McChord."