SGMC Health is expanding access to specialized care for high-risk pregnancies with the launch of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) services on its main campus, further strengthening its commitment to advancing women and infants’ health across South Georgia and North Florida.
The addition of SGMC Maternal-Fetal Medicine brings advanced diagnostics, comprehensive monitoring, and coordinated care closer to home for expectant mothers facing complex or high-risk pregnancies.
“Maternal-Fetal Medicine allows us to provide an additional level of specialized care for patients whose pregnancies require more intensive monitoring and expertise,” said Cherise Giddens, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at SGMC Health. “This service ensures families have access to highly specialized support while remaining connected to their local care team and support system.”
Maternal-Fetal Medicine focuses on pregnancies complicated by maternal health conditions, fetal concerns, multiple gestations, or issues identified through prenatal screening. Patients referred for MFM services receive expert evaluation and personalized care plans designed to optimize outcomes for both mother and baby.
According to Kimberly Cross, MD, Chief of OB/GYN Services at SGMC Health, the program strengthens the continuum of care for women throughout the region.
“Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialists work collaboratively with community OB/GYNs to provide additional expertise when needed while ensuring patients maintain a strong, ongoing relationship with their primary obstetric provider,” said Cross. “This partnership approach helps deliver the highest level of care while keeping patients close to home whenever possible.”
The new service represents another milestone in SGMC Health’s ongoing investment in women and infants’ services. With nearly 2,000 babies delivered annually, the health system continues to expand capacity, enhance clinical capabilities, and improve access to specialized care for growing families across the region.
SGMC Health already offers a maternity care program that includes 24/7 OB hospitalist coverage and a dedicated OB Emergency Department, ensuring expectant mothers have immediate access to expert care.
The addition of Maternal-Fetal Medicine services also supports the continued development of the Stalvey Women & Infants Center, scheduled to open in January 2027. Designed with both patient comfort and clinical excellence in mind, the new center will feature expanded suites, advanced technology, and enhanced support services.
“Every family deserves access to exceptional care at every stage of pregnancy,” Giddens added. “By bringing Maternal-Fetal Medicine services to SGMC Health, we are making it easier for patients who need specialized monitoring and support to receive that care close to home, reducing the burden of travel during what can already be a challenging time.”
As SGMC Health continues to grow and invest in the future of healthcare, these expanded services reinforce its role as a regional destination for advanced women and infants’ care—delivering the right care, at the right time, in the right place.
To learn more about women and infants’ services at SGMC Health, visit sgmc.org.