At Mercy Health – Lourdes Hospital, our midwifery practice highlights a commitment to compassionate, patient-centered care.
As the first full-scope midwifery practice in Paducah, Ky., we are proud to offer this pioneering initiative that helps expectant families in a unique and integrated approach to childbirth and women’s health.
“We see OB patients in the antepartum, intrapartum and postpartum times of their pregnancy,” Becky Johnson, a nurse midwife at Lourdes Hospital, explains. “We attend our own deliveries and independently manage and co-manage high-risk patients. We also offer full scope women’s health services as both of our midwives are dually certified as women’s health nurse practitioners.”
Why is a midwife program important?
A midwife practice offers a distinct approach to care, emphasizing listening, holistic treatment and patient education.
“It’s not about the care received that’s different, but how that care is applied and carried out,” Becky adds.
With a foundation in nursing, midwives are trained to think outside the box and incorporate natural approaches into their care plans. This means patients receive comprehensive obstetric care with an added layer of personalized and patient-centered attention.
A glimpse into Becky’s journey
Becky’s path to midwifery is both inspiring and unconventional.
After graduating from Murray State University, she began her career as an emergency room nurse. After a decade in the ER and another 10 years in labor and delivery, she found her calling in midwifery.
“I never wanted to be a midwife,” she admits. “However, God placed within me the desire and motivation.”
Since graduating from the University of Cincinnati in 2009, Becky has been a midwife, passionately advocating for midwifery care in the region.
What expectant families should know about midwifery
For families considering midwife services, Becky emphasizes the importance of early engagement.
“We prefer to see patients as quickly as possible following their first home pregnancy test,” she says.
Our practice at Lourdes Hospital offers more than 20 years of combined experience and aims to make patients feel like partners in their care. Becky adds that she is committed to ensuring that care is not dictated but shared, welcoming all pregnant patients to schedule an appointment or speak directly with her.
A calling, not just a job
For Becky, the most rewarding aspect of being a midwife is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of women and their families.
“I see miracles happen every day,” she says.
Becky aims to ensure that every woman leaves their office feeling valued and cared for. This personal connection and dedication to patient well-being are what make our midwife program at Lourdes Hospital truly special.
“We think of our patients as family and friends and care for them individually in a special way,” Becky explains. “We believe in them. We believe in each other. And we believe the best is yet to come.”
Paducah-area families can contact the program’s office at 270-538-5700 to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Learn more about the maternity care services we provide at Mercy Health.
