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OB-GYN Associates of Decatur and Madison
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Decatur General Births Shifted To Huntsville Hospital

OB-GYN Associates Chooses Huntsville Hospital for Births

Prenatal and Gynecological Office Services Remain Unchanged in Decatur

As of October 6, 2008, OB-GYN Associate physicians no longer provide obstetric services at Decatur General Hospital in Morgan County. OB-GYN Associates (previously Decatur OB-GYN Associates) now uses Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children for all births.

A variety of news sources have published articles about this switch but unfortunately, these articles too often created more questions and concerns than they answered. As such, we hope to clear up any misunderstandings and sooth the concerns of our valued patients.

Why the Switch?
OB-GYN Associates attempted to find a way to keep obstetric services in Morgan County. However, Decatur General, the largest of Morgan County's three hospitals, announced an $8 million operating deficit this summer and the resignation of longtime CEO James Hahn. Due to a number of related business issues, our practice obstetricians felt the move to Huntsville was best for all parties involved.

Huntsville Hospital is Prepared to Serve
According to Huntsville Hospital CEO David Spillers, four labor and delivery rooms and a second well-baby nursery have been added. Huntsville Hospital has the necessary facilities and maternity ward staff to accommodate the Decatur physicians' and their patient's arrival. In addition, all prenatal records have been transferred to Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children. As such, Decatur General and other nearby hospitals will no longer have the necessary medical records to best serve a patient - given an unannounced visit.

New Madison Office
Our new name, OB-GYN Associates, reflects the fact that we now serve the tri-county area of Morgan, Madison, and Limestone counties. Our new office at the Madison Surgery Center, located at 460 Lanier Road in Madison, will provide current patients and prospective new patients even more options for their care. Doctors will be rotating between the Decatur and Madison offices in order to serve patients at both locations. In addition, Nurse Practitioner, Susan Goldby will be very active at this new location.

Our Continued Commitment
All OB-GYN Associate physicians except Dr. Purvis will continue to offer gynecological (but not obstetric) services at Decatur General Hospital. Dr. Purvis will be exclusive to the new Madison office as of November 3, 2008.

Morgan/Limestone County Obstetric Patients - How to Proceed
To avoid making an unnecessary trip to Huntsville, OB-GYN Associates encourages Morgan/Limestone County patients who think they may be going into labor, or those with other serious health concerns, to call their doctor at the local number of 355-9711. This number is staffed 24-hours a day, 7-days a week. Your physician can assess your personal situation and provide directions on care. In addition, there is always a doctor on call at Huntsville Hospital. We stress the following:

  • Continue to follow protocol.
  • Make yourself familiar with the drive to Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children.
  • Keep all appointments so your doctor knows your probability for delivery.

For your convenience, both our Decatur and Madison offices will continue to provide regular (in-office) prenatal care.

Gynecology Patients - How to Proceed
Decatur/Morgan County patients with "gynecology emergencies" will continue to find a physician at Decatur General Hospital. Limestone County patients, depending on their location, have the option of choosing either Huntsville Hospital or Decatur General for their emergency care. For your convenience, both our Decatur and Madison offices will continue to provide regular (in-office) gynecology care.

Emergencies
Naturally, OB-GYN Associates encourages any patient to call 911 or proceed directly to the nearest hospital if they feel that they have an emergency.

 
Patient Quotes:

"The nurse and the ladies who answer the phone are very friendly and helpful."
"I've been a patient for 14 years and never had a bad experience. Dr. Spangler is a great doctor. The staff is always friendly."
Patient Quotes:

"You have a great office and Dr. Shannon is a great doctor."
"Through all of my concerns, all of the chaos that was going on in my life, and all of my gripe sessions, Dr. McCain always remained calm and did not once call the police on me!"
Patient Quotes:

"Very pleased with everything!"
"My visit to your office was pleasant. I appreciated the timeliness and short wait time. I was in and out of your office in one hour. I was impressed and felt like I received quality care."
Patient Quotes:

"I know I'm in good hands. My doctor listens."
"It's evident that you strive daily to become better. That is what makes a business and our personal life successful! I appreciate your kindness each and every time I visit with you."
Patient Quotes:

"Dr. Shannon is on top of my care. He is an OB that is a pleasure to deal with. He is professional, but casual, making it very easy to talk to him. He made having to come in so frequently throughout my pregnancy enjoyable and comfortable."
Patient Quotes:

"Dr. Schuster is a caring doctor, family oriented, very compassionate and humble in his work."
"Dr. Purvis is very sensitive, caring and kind hearted and very professional."
Patient Quotes:

"The receptionist - I do not know her name - but she is always the friendliest person and a joy to see when I come in. The last time I came in, even before signing in, she remembered my name. I just love her! She is the best and I thank you."
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Decatur Alabama Office: 1304 13th Ave. SE., Decatur, AL - (256) 355-9711
460 Lanier Rd., Suite 206, Madison, AL - (256) 704-2229
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