A COVID-19 maternity task force has been created to examine the best approach to authorizing and certifying additional dedicated birthing centers in an effort to provide mothers a safe alternative to already stressed hospitals amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The task force will make recommendations to the governor by the end of the week.

Additionally, the task force will work with Regional Perinatal Centers to review literature and make recommendations on the impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy.

“This pandemic strained our hospital system in a way no one could have ever imagined, and while New York leads in ensuring laboring mothers were able to have a healthy partner, friend or family member with them during childbirth we can and should explore additional ways to make the experience less stressful,” Melissa DeRosa, secretary to the governor and chairwoman of the New York State Council on Women and Girls, said in a release. “Birth centers can serve as a safe alternative for low-risk pregnancies — relieving the strain on hospitals and providing a supportive environment for mothers during an already stressful time.” 

The task force, chaired by DeRosa, will be composed of stakeholders from obstetrical providers, pediatric care providers and family planning agencies in conjunction with the state’s health department.