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Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital opened a relocated and enhanced C-section surgical suite on May 7, 2026, to reduce emergency response times and expand maternity care. According to hospital officials, the suite’s new location within the birthing center allows staff to act more quickly during critical moments, which is intended to improve patient outcomes for the Zeeland community.

Why was the C-section suite relocated?

The hospital moved the surgical suite into the birthing center to minimize the time it takes to respond to emergency C-sections. Tom Fasbender, D.O., the OB-GYN department chair at Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital, stated that reducing delays in critical moments helps minimize patient and family anxiety.

The updated layout also removes the requirement to transport patients through multiple hospital departments and hallways. This change is designed to provide a calmer environment and more seamless, continuous care, according to hospital leadership.

Did You Know? The new surgical suite was designed by Ghafari Associates and constructed by The Christman Company to specifically improve patient safety and comfort within the Family Birthing Center.

How does the new design support medical staff?

The facility includes increased space and an improved workflow to accommodate a growing number of team members. New staff amenities, such as expanded locker rooms, were included in the upgrade to support the care teams.

Janet Wilks, the nurse manager of the Family Birthing Center, noted that birth volumes are increasing. She stated that surgical and obstetrical staff have already conducted drills in the new space to ensure coordinated care.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that relocating critical surgical capabilities closer to the point of care is a strategic move to reduce “transit risk.” By eliminating the need to move patients through public hallways, the hospital likely reduces both the physical time to surgery and the psychological stress on the patient.

Who funded the expansion?

Janine Dalman, the foundation director for Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan at Zeeland Hospital, attributed the project’s success to the generosity of Sue and Tom DenHerder. The foundation board also provided contributions toward the surgical suite and other hospital expansion efforts.

9 Corewell Health hospitals listed in "US News and World Report's" Maternity Rankings- Sponsored

What happens next for maternity care in Zeeland?

With the new suite operational, the hospital may be able to handle higher birth volumes more efficiently. The integration of surgical and obstetrical staff through ongoing drills suggests a possible shift toward more highly coordinated emergency protocols.

Future expansions could potentially follow this model of relocating specialized services closer to patient rooms to further reduce response times.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the new C-section suite officially open?
The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Thursday, May 7.

What are the primary benefits of the new suite’s location?
According to hospital officials, the relocation reduces emergency response times and eliminates the need to transport patients through multiple hallways, enhancing privacy and comfort.

Who were the partners involved in the construction of the suite?
The suite was designed by Ghafari Associates and built by The Christman Company.

To learn how to support projects like this at Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital, visit www.corewellhealth.org/foundation/west.

How do you think hospital facility design impacts the overall patient experience during childbirth?