Transfer OB Patients

It's a common phone call at LCM:
"I started care at a different office...then I took a childbirth class, read some books, saw some films....now I know what kind of birth I want, and I don't think my current provider will support me"...."I want to transfer and have midwife care." Sometimes the patient's doctor was even the one to suggest the switch, if they realize that their style of care, or the hospital policies where they work, and the patient's wishes are not compatible. LCM accepts transfer patients who meet medical criteria and whose wishes are compatible with our program of care.

We do not accept transfers after 36 weeks gestation under any circumstances.

LCM's process for transfer:

Talk with your Current Provider
First, please talk candidly with your current provider and make sure that you cannot work with that provider to have the type of birth care you are seeking. It is a big step to switch care providers in the middle of pregnancy, and it should be a last-resort decision. LCM does not solicit or try to divert business from our colleagues. We realize, however, that the woman's wishes must come first.

Read through our Website
We can only accept patients who meet our medical criteria and agree to our practice guidelines. It's important to read the LCM website information, especially "Low Technology Birth". It is very important that you understand and are comfortable with our guidelines. If you have any doubts, we may not be a good match for you, and we may be able to suggest alternatives.

Talk to a Midwife
Call & ask for an appointment to discuss transfer with one of our Certified Nurse-midwives. This can be a phone appointment up to 32 weeks gestation. For women 32 weeks or more gestation, we require an office appointment with both the mother and her partner present. This appointment will include a medical screening and a discussion of our approach to care and clinical guidelines. Please have a list of any questions you need to ask, as well. If you and the midwife both agree that you would be a good fit for care at LCM, we can transfer your care.

Obtain Previous Records
Complete prenatal records from the other providers, including physical, pap, labs, and sonograms are essential to complete your transfer. They should arrive at least 3 business days prior to your first appointment, so that we can prepare a chart for you.

Print out the "Authorization for Release of Medical Information" form, fill out, and fax to your provider. Please call LCM and make sure they have sent your records to us, prior to your first appointment. We can not begin your care without your records.