The Early Discharge Program allows eligible patients (birthing person and newborn) to be discharged prior to 24 hours in hospital and have a midwife follow-up with them at home to complete all newborn assessments and screening tests.
Midwives are primary care providers who are trained to provide care to low risk pregnant, birthing and postpartum people and newborns. Even if you didn’t have a midwife during your pregnancy and delivery, a London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) midwife can help you and your baby transition from hospital to home.
After their one-time visit with you, you will contact your regular primary care provider (family physician, paediatrician or nurse practitioner) for ongoing care.
What you can expect
Upon discharge from LHSC, the midwife will call you to schedule a time for your home visit. At the home visit, they will:
- Complete the newborn screening tests that are normally done in hospital after 24 hours of life (e.g. Ontario Newborn Screen, Critical Congenital Heart Defect Screening and Screening for Jaundice)
- Complete a set of vitals on the birthing person (e.g. blood pressure, pulse and temperature), as well as an abdominal check to assess the uterus, visual assessment of the vagina, mood, etc.
- Complete a set of vitals on newborn (e.g. heart rate, respiration rate, temperature, output and weight)
- Assess and assist with feeding, if desired
You will also be given access to the midwifery paging system, which allows you to contact a midwife between your time of discharge and the home visit if urgent concerns arise.
Please note: The Early Discharge Program is primarily available to patients living in London who meet the eligibility criteria. Please speak with your postpartum nurse for more information.
