Would you change doctors?

brefghilmn

Hi, I went on my hospital tour this weekend and learned that private post-partum rooms cost about $800/night, out of pocket (insurance won't cover). I found out today that I could go to another hospital and get a private room for free (due to special benefits, not for everyone). My husband also used to be a doctor in that hospital (and has worked in the labor/delivery floor) so he would know the doctors and be familiar with everything that is going on. My current hospital is a 30 min taxi ride away and the other hospital would be a 60 min taxi ride. My current doctor does not deliver in the other hospital. I was given a recommendation today by someone who loved their doctor and does deliver in the other hospital.
Given all that - would you switch at this point in your pregnancy?? It could save between $1500-$4000.

CandEChicago

brefghilmn said:

Hi, I went on my hospital tour this weekend and learned that private post-partum rooms cost about $800/night, out of pocket (insurance won't cover). I found out today that I could go to another hospital and get a private room for free (due to special benefits, not for everyone). My husband also used to be a doctor in that hospital (and has worked in the labor/delivery floor) so he would know the doctors and be familiar with everything that is going on. My current hospital is a 30 min taxi ride away and the other hospital would be a 60 min taxi ride. My current doctor does not deliver in the other hospital. I was given a recommendation today by someone who loved their doctor and does deliver in the other hospital. Given all that - would you switch at this point in your pregnancy?? It could save between $1500-$4000.

QFP

CandEChicago

Is there a consideration for the quality of care?  I would put discuss this consideration more to your doctor than a group of internet strangers. 

brefghilmn

I think the quality of care would be great with both. They are both outstanding hospitals, I like my current doctor and the other doctor received rave reviews from someone I trust.
Didn't think the question warranted a qfp but that is fine. Thanks for answering. Was just hoping for feedback especially from women who have given birth before.

brefghilmn

My only concern with switching is the length of the taxi ride / distance from my home and also possibly if someone on this board thought switching doctors at this point would be a big no no.

CandEChicago

brefghilmn said:

I think the quality of care would be great with both. They are both outstanding hospitals, I like my current doctor and the other doctor received rave reviews from someone I trust. Didn't think the question warranted a qfp but that is fine. Thanks for answering. Was just hoping for feedback especially from women who have given birth before.

We have had an influx of newbies/trolls.   

brefghilmn said:

My only concern with switching is the length of the taxi ride / distance from my home and also possibly if someone on this board thought switching doctors at this point would be a big no no.

Wouldn't hurt to register at both and you decide based upon on you further progress through your pregnancy and how you feel based on labor & delivery. 

QueenOfSpades622

No way I would switch this late in the game, especially if quality of care isn't the concern. But that is me. I would also take into consideration a new OB may not take after starting your third trimester.

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Sweetsix06

Since your husband is a doctor, what does he think? I personally wouldn't switch. I'm not a fan of change. But go with your gut and make the best decision for you and your family. Good luck.

bowlwoman

I had to switch OBs at 30 weeks because my doctor went on medical leave for cancer, so the switching thing isn't as concerning for me. It's more how you feel about the uncertainty of what you'll be potentially getting.

brownmouse

I see no problem in switching. I myself am looking at switching from my midwife practice (of 9 midwives, three of which I have met) and a hospital birth to paying out of pocket for a midwife and having a homebirth. I am 29 weeks. If you meet the other doctor, and feel that you would have a better time and delivery with him/her, then go for it! Especially if you're saving money.

AllTheTeaInChina

60 min taxi ride? Hell no. How much will that cost round trip?

How would you save up to $4000 by using the other hospital?

Eora3

I would at least get to know the other doctor if you are considering switching. The doctor who delivers you will determine what interventions (forceps, episiotomy, c-section, etc) are needed during your delivery. If you get one who prefers a quick surgical birth over a normal 24 hour labor, you may get pressured into a c-section. Do your research.

brefghilmn

Thanks for the input so far everyone (especially NandaB, I feel like you understand exactly what I was trying to ask). 

The suggestions to just register at both hospitals are helpful too, I didn't even think of that. 

And to answer some of the other questions that came up:

1. I didn't research earlier because I assumed I would be paying similar in all the hospitals in the area for a private room. Didn't know until today when someone gave me a tip that I otherwise would not have been able to find / know about.

2. In some ways I think the care would be better at the other hospital since the doctors know my husband. 

3. A taxi ride would cost about $50 each way. I was more concerned about possibly delivering in the taxi!  But most people have told me similar to what NandaB said - that first time labors usually take longer. 

4. $4k - the rooms range in price, up to $1k based on what's available. If you have a c-section you have to stay 4 nights = $4k. 

Thanks again!

MaineMama

Even with a csection, no one can MAKE you stay in the hospital.

Other than that, I have nothing helpful to add to this conversation.

feeshah

Switch! switch! Switch! Switch!

Let your "new" doctor know how far away you live. I live pretty far from my hospital and my OB told me it's not a problem. I am also not a high risk pregnancy. She would just advise me to come in a little sooner then say Someone who lived 10-15 min away.

I would totally switch. Private room...hubby has the hook ups...good doctor reviews. Pssh! Why not?

Cheekers2010

feeshah said:

Switch! switch! Switch! Switch!

Let your "new" doctor know how far away you live. I live pretty far from my hospital and my OB told me it's not a problem. I am also not a high risk pregnancy. She would just advise me to come in a little sooner then say Someone who lived 10-15 min away.

I would totally switch. Private room...hubby has the hook ups...good doctor reviews. Pssh! Why not?

Agree! Especially if you meet the new doc and like them. If you meet the new doc and don't like them, well...you have your answer.

runnerbikergirl

I can't believe there are still hospitals where you have to share a room after giving birth! Is that common? What city do you live in??