National obstetrics award goes to North Valley Hospital

North Valley Hospital has received the Women’s Choice Award from WomenCertified recognizing it as one of the 2013 Best Hospitals for Patient Experience in Obstetrics.

The hospital in Whitefish was one of 350 nationwide recognized for their care in obstetrics. WomenCertified based the award on clinical data and patient recommendation scores.

WomenCertified also recognized North Valley Hospital as one of America’s best hospitals for patient experience overall.

In a press release, Cindy Walp, manager of The Birth Center, said the staff works hard to fulfill each family’s desired birth experience.“

When you combine true patient-centered care in a beautiful, soothing environment with highly skilled nurses, physicians and midwives, you’ve got a recipe for a wonderful experience that patients relish,” Walp said.

North Valley Hospital had 482 births during 2012. According to the hospital’s press release, several couples traveled to the facility last year from Mexico and Europe to deliver at The Birth Center.

Hospital officials said The Birth Center achieved a 98 percent breast-feeding success rate and a Caesarean section rate well below the national average.