Rhody Health: How Access to Quality Health Care Supports Patients & Families

South County Health’s Center for Women’s Health has long been a trusted source of exceptional obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) care for women across Southern Rhode Island. Now, with its expansion into Newport County, Martha Moe, MD, medical director of the Center for Women’s Health, shares insights about the importance of local access to care – and how South County Health helps patients feel informed and empowered in their health choices.

Why is access to care so important, especially during pregnancy and early parenthood?

Dr. Moe: Consistent access to care is one of the strongest predictors of positive outcomes for both mother and baby. When patients can see their provider regularly without long travel times or delays, it allows for better monitoring, early detection of complications, and more opportunities for education and reassurance. Access to prenatal care has been proven to allow for better management of diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, and also reduce preterm birth rates. Pregnancy is a time of constant change, physically and emotionally. Having a trusted provider who listens and partners with patients in decision-making makes a real difference in how supported, confident, and empowered they feel. That’s exactly what our expansion into Newport is about: providing high-quality, relationship-based care that’s easier for families to access.

What types of care and support do women’s health providers focus on, beyond pregnancy?

Dr. Moe: OB/GYN care goes far beyond pregnancy and delivery. We support women through every stage of life – from adolescence through menopause – with contraception and sexually transmitted infections (STI) counseling, preventative cancer screening, menstrual health management, and menopause care. For new mothers, postpartum visits are a vital part of recovery and wellness. This includes physical healing, emotional health, and the changes that come with caring for a newborn. Postpartum challenges such as fatigue, mood changes, and breastfeeding difficulties are common and treatable. Regular follow-ups allow us to identify concerns early and manage them with compassion and evidence-based care. Education is key to confidence. We offer classes on childbirth and breastfeeding, as well as new parent groups, all free of charge, to help families prepare for what’s ahead.
Furthermore, we partner with our community Doulas of Rhode Island to support another avenue for patients to find the support they need in pregnancy and postpartum.

These programs are open to everyone – not just South County Health patients – because we believe in community-based education that empowers parents. For example, our breastfeeding classes are led by certified lactation consultants who teach techniques, troubleshoot challenges, and connect new parents with peer support. Our childbirth classes help parents understand the stages of labor, comfort techniques, and what to expect during delivery. When parents know what to expect, they feel calmer and more in control, which supports healthier outcomes for both mom and baby.

Why is it important for women to maintain regular care as they get older?

Dr. Moe: Women often think OB/GYN care is only for pregnancy or reproductive years, but that’s not the case. As patients age, maintaining a relationship with a trusted provider is essential for monitoring overall health, preventing disease, and managing changes related to menopause and beyond. Regular visits allow us to screen for conditions like osteoporosis, uterine or ovarian abnormalities, cancers, and heart disease – many of which become more common after age 50. Many older women benefit from minimally invasive gynecologic surgeries, such as hysterectomy, or pelvic organ prolapse repair, which can significantly improve quality of life. Having a long-term relationship with a provider helps ensure that if an intervention is needed, it’s planned with a complete understanding of a patient’s health history and recovery goals.

Are there other benefits to staying connected with a provider as women age?

Dr. Moe: Absolutely. Beyond screenings and surgical care, we provide guidance on maintaining sexual health, and addressing quality-of-life concerns related to menopause. Regular visits also allow us to personalize care for each patient, which is especially important as health needs evolve over time.

What advice would you give someone who hasn’t seen their OB/GYN in a while?

Dr. Moe: Don’t wait. Even if you feel healthy, staying proactive with OB/GYN care can prevent problems before they arise and provide peace of mind. Schedule a well visit, ask questions, and discuss your options for preventive care and screenings that might improve your health or quality of life. At every stage of life, our goal is to ensure women feel heard, supported, and cared for – not just as patients, but as people.

South County Health

100 Kenyon Avenue, Wakefield

401-782-8000

SouthCountyHealth.org