In the third episode of the Lifecycle series, host Jennifer Semenza speaks with Dr. Alex Hamling, pediatrician at PACMED Canyon Park-Bothell, and Clinical Instructor at University of Washington School of Medicine. He discusses essential newborn care, which ensures the baby's health and helps parents feel prepared and confident in their roles. Dr. Hamling discusses why it’s essential for expecting parents to choose a healthcare provider or practice for their child in advance to avoid stress during the birthing process. While having a detailed birth plan is beneficial, flexibility is crucial, as circumstances may change to ensure a safe and healthy delivery. The conversation also provides valuable insights into current trends for caring for newborns and infants. He also talks about the health benefits of bonding and acknowledges the joy and challenges of this period. Do you want to know more? The Justice Unity Support Trust, or JUST Birth Network was created to empower and improve the birthing experience of Black, African American, African, Native American, Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander birthing women and people from across the sex and gender identity spectrum. The network includes dedicated birth and postpartum doulas, childbirth educators and inpatient cultural navigators, who provide patients and their families with expert care and guidance throughout their pregnancy and birthing experience. If you would like to know more about the role of doulas, midwives, or Type 1 Diabetes please check out these Wellness Briefs: DoulasMidwivesType 1 Diabetes Just a few of the articles on this topic from the Providence blog: How to navigate your pregnancy and newborn-related health care expensesTrouble breastfeeding? Lactation consultants can helpWhat you need to know: All the feelings during the postpartum periodPost-Partum DepressionA Better BirthQ & A: Helping Mom and BabyCheck out the Providence blog for more information on good pediatric care and all other health related topics. To learn more about our mission programs and services, go to Providence.org. Follow us on social media to get continued information on other important health care topics. You can connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and X. For all your healthcare information on the go, download the Providence app. Whether you’re tracking symptoms, scheduling appointments, or connecting with your healthcare providers, the Providence app has your back. To learn more about the app, check out the Wellness Brief podcast episode. Wellness Brief: Simplifying Care-There's an App for That. Connect with Us: Share Your Thoughts! We value your insights and would love to hear your thoughts on our recent discussions. You can reach us at FutureOfHealthPodcasts@providence.org. Let's shape the future of health together! Dr. Alex Hamling Bio Alex Hamling, MD, MBA, FAAP is a board-certified pediatrician working at Pacific Medical Centers at their Bothell, WA campus. He obtained his medical degree from Temple University School of Medicine and his MBA in Healthcare Management from the Fox School of Business at Temple University. He completed his general pediatric residency at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medicine Center. He is Clinical Faculty at the University of Washington’s School of Medicine – Department of Family Medicine and Adjunct Faculty at Washington State University’s College of Nursing. He has been an active member as a board member in the Washington State Medical Association. He has served on numerous committees through the American Academy of Pediatrics including teaching early career physicians through different leadership programs. During his off time, he enjoys geocaching, gardening, walking with his daughters to local coffee shops, and dancing.
