Bronson isn't just a healthcare provider; it's a community that champions every individual's journey to parenthood
I am currently 7 months pregnant with my second child and am receiving my prenatal care at Bronson Obstetrics, Gynecology & Midwifery Specialists in South Haven. I am so grateful for the incredible support that I’ve received from the team here and their efforts to go above and beyond in keeping me healthy, informed and overall prepared for the birth of my second child.
I was living in Arizona during my first pregnancy, and unfortunately I had a very traumatic birthing experience. I hadn’t done much research into my doctor ahead of time, so I knew I needed to be more discerning this time around and carefully vet all my options. I read many online reviews for local OB/GYNs, and everything I read about Bronson was amazing! I was able to take a facility tour of the Obstetrics & Midwifery office in South Haven, where I am receiving my prenatal care, and the Bronson BirthPlace in Kalamazoo, where I will deliver my baby this summer. Everyone I met during the tours were so friendly and I immediately felt at ease with the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Most of my prenatal care has been with midwife Tracy Anderson. I have also been seen by Laurel Yoder. Both midwives are amazing and make me feel like I am in good hands. Throughout my prenatal journey, Tracy has been a pillar of support. As a Black woman with past birthing trauma, Tracy's emphasis on patient education has been invaluable. She's not only addressed my concerns but also shed light on important issues, such as the higher mortality rates among Black women during pregnancy and childbirth. Tracy has made sure that none of my feelings or symptoms were brushed over and has shown genuine concern for my well-being and my unique pregnancy needs, potential complications, etc.
During my first consultation and every appointment thereafter, the team would recommend joining the CenteringPregnancy® program which I initially approached with skepticism. From the timing of meetings to being in a group program without anyone I know, I really didn’t think it was for me. However, to my surprise, I loved it! The topic of discussion at that first meeting was so relatable to my current situation and all the other participants were vocal, engaged and supportive. It really felt like a safe space. As I continued attending sessions, the midwives would talk about things I didn’t even know I needed to think about, and other participants would ask the questions that I had been thinking of but forgot to ask myself. The program has also been a way for me to meet other midwives and providers who could be there when I give birth. Knowing them and having some sort of a relationship with them makes me feel confident that they aren’t just going to be there to help me push out a baby, but that they are prepared and able to better coach me through the process. Not only has the Centering program made me feel more prepared for my delivery, but it has provided me a vital support network. One of the women in the program ended up going in to potentially deliver earlier than expected and at our next meeting, the midwives came with a card for everyone to sign. I can only imagine how special that would have made me feel if I were in her shoes!
Another aspect about Bronson that I love is Bronson MyChart. I love being able to send a quick message to my providers and knowing that I will get a timely response. I have used it for quick questions, prescription refills and help with FMLA paperwork. It has helped me feel like I am being taken care of on every level and proves that their commitment to patient care extends beyond the clinic walls. One time, I was feeling lightheaded and couldn’t stand without breaking a sweat. Normally I would ignore something like that, writing it off as ‘just being pregnant.’ But, I decided to send a quick message to the OB/GYN office and they responded right away. They were really busy in the office but worked with my primary care provider to get me seen right away. He even cut his lunch break short to see me!
Speaking of my primary care provider: I am new to South Haven, so when I decided to have my prenatal care at Bronson, I did not have an established PCP. My insurance required that I have a PCP in order to be seen by any other provider. So to make sure that all of my prenatal care would be covered under insurance, the Bronson Obstetrics, Gynecology & Midwifery Specialists team helped expedite the process of me getting established with a PCP and setting up a first appointment. This is how I met Dr. David Eisinger, and like I said before, he has been so accommodating to me.
Last but not least, the availability of a lactation consultant within the Bronson BirthPlace reassures me as I prepare for the breastfeeding journey ahead. Knowing that such support is readily accessible adds to the peace of mind provided by Bronson. Though I have not met with them yet, I know I will be using this service after delivery. This will be the first time I attempt to breastfeed and eventually pump, so I know the service is going to be helpful.
For anyone seeking exceptional prenatal care and a supportive birthing environment, I wholeheartedly recommend Bronson. It really is different here! Bronson isn't just a healthcare provider; it's a community that champions every individual's journey to parenthood. Within the Black and Brown community, there can be an issue of not knowing what our role is within our care and what the doctor’s job is. Tracy and the entire team have empowered me with knowledge and confidence, making me feel truly prepared for this next chapter in my life. I didn’t even know this was something I needed, but my entire experience with Bronson has made me feel equipped and prepared to have my baby!
