Starting September 1, Saint Mary’s Regional Health System will launch Couplet Care—a modern approach to postpartum nursing that keeps moms and babies together as one unit of care. This new model is designed to provide families with more personalized, compassionate and coordinated support during those precious first moments after birth.

Couplet Care is centered around the philosophy that mothers and newborns belong together. This family-focused model improves bonding, promotes breastfeeding success and supports a smoother transition to life at home. 

“Launching Couplet Care reflects our continued commitment to providing exceptional care for women and newborns,” said Haley Sutterfield, RN, Director of Women’s and Children’s Services. “By keeping moms and babies together, we’re not just enhancing care—we’re helping families build strong connections right from the start.” 

Under this model, a single nurse is trained to care for both mother and baby, streamlining care and creating a more supportive and educational experience for new parents. This approach also reduces the number of different providers entering the room, allowing for more rest and privacy during recovery. 

The new process aligns with evidence-based best practices and is part of a broader initiative to elevate maternity care at Saint Mary’s. 

“We want every family to feel confident, informed, and cared for during their time with us,” said Sutterfield. “Couplet Care helps us meet that goal with greater consistency and heart.” 

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