Covenant Health’s Fort Sanders Regional and Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital Partner to Strengthen Care for Mothers and Babies

At Covenant Health’s Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center and Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, families have access to connected expert maternal and neonatal care. This unique partnership keeps mothers and babies close and supported no matter what complications arise. This coordinated approach gives families peace of mind during one of the most important moments of their lives. 

Maternal fetal medicine specialist Angela Seasely, MD, says the strength of this partnership is simple. “The partnership between Fort Sanders and Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital NICU is truly special. It allows mothers and babies to receive highly specialized care while remaining connected through one coordinated care team.”

Planning Ahead for the Safest Possible Delivery 

Pregnancy can come with many unknowns. When a baby may need NICU support, early planning makes a difference. At Fort Sanders Regional, maternal fetal medicine physicians meet regularly with the NICU team at Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital to review upcoming cases. These conversations help both teams prepare long before delivery day. 

Dr. Seasely explains how this behind-the-scenes work helps families. “Together, we discuss the diagnosis, anticipated delivery timing, possible complications, immediate newborn needs and safest delivery plan. These conversations allow both teams to be prepared before the baby is born rather than reacting in the moment.” 

This preparation helps families feel more confident and supported. It also improves outcomes. Babies who need specialized care benefit from being delivered at a hospital with immediate NICU access. This avoids delays in treatment and prevents mothers and babies from being separated after birth. 

“Early case planning gives the baby the right team at the right time,” Dr. Seasely says. Families can even meet NICU providers and tour the facilities during pregnancy. This helps parents ask questions, understand the plan and feel more prepared for what comes next. 

A Coordinated Team in the Delivery Room 

When a baby is expected to need NICU care, the delivery room becomes a carefully coordinated environment. The obstetric team focuses on the safest delivery for the mother. The NICU team is present and ready to care for the newborn immediately. 

“Everyone has a defined role, and the plan has been discussed in advance,” Dr. Seasely says. “That preparation allows the transition from delivery to neonatal care to happen quickly, calmly and safely.” 

This teamwork helps families feel supported during a moment that can be emotional and overwhelming. Parents are never left wondering what will happen next. The team guides them step by step. 

Staying Close Through Every Step of Care 

One of the most unique parts of this partnership is the underground tunnel that connects Fort Sanders Regional and Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital. This tunnel allows babies who need NICU care to be transferred quickly and safely without outside transport. 

This convenience matters. Even when mother and baby need care in different hospitals, they remain physically close, which is important postpartum. It keeps families connected and reduces stress during a vulnerable time. 

A Partnership Built on Expertise and Compassion 

Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital is home to the region’s most advanced NICU. The team cares for babies with prematurity, congenital conditions, respiratory needs and unexpected complications.  

“The NICU team is highly experienced, compassionate and prepared for a wide range of newborn needs,” Dr. Seasely says. “Needing NICU care does not mean something has gone wrong. It means your baby has a specialized team ready to provide the support that your child needs.” 

This partnership also strengthens care for high-risk mothers. “It allows us to make thoughtful decisions about timing of delivery, location of delivery and the safest plan for both mother and baby,” she says. 

A Promise to Families 

For Dr. Seasely, the most meaningful part of this partnership is the reassurance it brings to families. “This partnership allows us to surround families with a team that is prepared, compassionate and deeply committed to both mother and baby.” 

Fort Sanders Regional and Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital share a commitment to protect mothers, support babies and keep families close. This partnership delivers on that promise every day. 

If you are expecting a baby or have questions about high-risk pregnancy care, our perinatal team at Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center is here to support you. Learn more about our maternity services or connect with a provider.