Obstetrics Update
Stevenson Memorial Hospital is welcoming back a familiar face to the birthing unit later this year. After leaving for an opportunity in Alberta, Dr. Adel Abdulhafid will return to Stevenson, replacing Dr. Glasine Lawson who has resigned her position as of September 1, 2014.
Currently, Dr. Abdulhafid is the Chief of Obstetrics at Barrhead Healthcare Centre in Alberta where he built the gynaecological surgery program over the past five years into a centre of excellence that receives referrals from the surrounding area.
He is expected to return to Alliston later this year, however, an exact start date is not yet known.
Lawson joined Stevenson in 2008, shortly after the birthing unit had re-opened.
"I would like to sincerely thank Dr. Lawson for her contributions to Stevenson as we worked to rejuvenate our program and ensure that women in our community continue to have access to high-quality obstetrical and gynecological services," said Jody Levac, President and CEO at Stevenson.
A transition plan is in place to ensure no disruptions in services to women and families. Coverage will be provided by Dr. Richard Simms, a part-time Obstetrician, along with a roster of local physicians (LOCUMs) dedicated to providing safe quality care at Stevenson until the new full-time physician arrives.
"While the departure of Dr. Lawson is a loss to the Maternal Child Program at Stevenson, providing high quality birthing services remains our priority," said Dr. Oswaldo Ramirez, Chief of Staff. "We have experienced tremendous upward momentum and impressive progress over the past few years and would like to extend our thanks to Dr. Lawson for her dedication and professionalism. We wish her all the best."
The number of deliveries is on the rise, reaching 354 in 2013. Midwives are currently managing over a third of the deliveries at the hospital and a specialized care team for newborns remains in place.
Staff and midwives recognize Lawson’s contributions to the community and wish her well with future plans.
"We are so grateful to Dr. Lawson for her role in building and maintaining the safe, reliable obstetrics and gynecology program that our community so passionately advocated for,” said Registered Midwife Marcia Rowat. “We look forward to the ongoing stability that Dr. Abdulhafid will offer the invaluable women's health-care programs championed by Stevenson Memorial Hospital."
"When I worked with Dr. Abdulhafid in the past, I found his bedside manner to be respectful and attentive. He was able to facilitate inter-professional collaborative care without the common barriers associated with hierarchy."
Registered Midwife Melissa Beaver remembers her student training at Stevenson with Dr. Abdulhafid.
“He was wonderful in providing some learning opportunities and teaching moments,” she said. “In fact, the first delivery I ever conducted was under his supervision. I, and the other midwives, look forward to having another midwifery-friendly team member on board. This is one of the many things that make our unit so special."
Abdulhafid is certified with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons and has passed the specialty exam in obstetrics/gynaecology. The lengthy process of physician certification with College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario(CPSO) is underway. When he arrives, Dr. Abdulhafid's skills in obstetrics and gynecology will be in addition to those of Dr. Simms, who will continue to offer services on a part time basis to women in the community.
“Transferring from one province to another can take time for a physician, and we are working with the CPSO to complete the extensive process,” said Dr. Ramirez. “We are confident that our transition plan will ensure seamless and uninterrupted obstetrical and gynaecological services at Stevenson Memorial Hospital.”
