If you'd like to ask us a question, please browse through the pre-answered, frequently asked questions below. If you haven't found the answer, please contact us directly.
Answering your questions
Please find the answers for your frequently asked questions below. Just click the question to reveal the answer. Use the questions topic filter to narrow the list.
Are you accepting new patients?
We are always accepting new patients. Please contact us to setup an appointment.
How to make appointment?
If you are planning on visiting us for the first time, please allow 45 minutes for your initial appointment and you will need to arrive 10 minutes before your appointment time to complete some paperwork. Our aim at this initial appointment and any future appointments that may follow, is to identify the problem and start working on it to make you feel better. We will also work with you to identify ways in which you could improve your condition between appointments.
What should I do if I'm going to be late to my appointment?
Please call and let our receptionists know your estimated arrival time, but be aware that we may need to reschedule your appointment for another day.
Will you file my health insurance claims for me?
As a courtesy, we will file claims with your primary and secondary insurance companies. Any remaining balance after the claim is final with insurance is the patient’s responsibility.
What will my insurance cover?
I don't have insurance. How do I apply for insurance coverage?
If you do not have insurance coverage please call Deschutes County Prenatal Access team at 541-322-7448 and they will help you. They are a great resource to connect you with pregnancy support services such as WIC.
How do I request a copy of my medical records?
Copies of your medical record require a written and signed release by the patient. Verbal requests are not accepted by law
How do I refill my prescription?
We ask that you call your pharmacy to request the refill. This may take 24-48 hours to complete the request so be sure to call in advance.
Please be sure to review our Prescription for Narcotic Use Policy when questing the refill of a narcotic prescription.
How can I reach my provider after hours?
We have a provider on call for emergencies 24/7. If you were to experience an emergency please call our main line at 541-389-3300 and follow the prompts for after-hours emergency. For non-urgent questions you may leave a message on our voicemail that will be answered during regular business hours. You may also send us a message via our secure patient portal. Those messages will be answered within 48 hours. The link is located on our website at www.ecwg.net.
Do you cover high-risk pregnancy?
Yes, all of our physicians are experienced with high-risk pregnancies.
What can I expect at my first appointment for prenatal care?
Your first appointment will be a phone visit with your nurse between 6-8 weeks. It is very important to first fill out your health history through on patient portal on the website. The nurse will then call to review your health history, prepare your chart, and discuss pregnancy education. Plan for approximately 30-40 minutes for this phone appointment.
When is my first prenatal appointment with my provider?
Your first appointment with your provider will be scheduled around 8-10 weeks gestation. At this visit, your provider will review your history, perform a physical exam and either listen to baby’s heartbeat or do an ultrasound. Your provider will discuss pregnancy plans and answer your questions. Labs are often drawn at this time. This is a great appointment to bring a significant other if you choose.
When do I find out my baby's gender?
If you choose to find out baby’s gender this can be done at the ultrasound that is ordered at approximately 20 weeks. You can also learn gender if you choose the optional NIPT genetic test at approximately 10 weeks.
Can I fly or travel long distances during my pregnancy?
We recommend no flying after 36 weeks gestation. After 36 weeks it is recommended that obstetrical patients stay within 2 hours travel time of hospital services. Patients should check with their individual airlines to see if there are any additional restrictions.
I want an Epidural. Can I still have one with a Midwife?
Midwives support and respect patient choices about how to manage pain in labor. If you want an epidural go for it! If you wish to avoid pain medication, midwives have additional training to support physiologic coping methods during labor.
I have a high risk pregnancy. Can I still have a Midwife?
Midwives manage many pregnancy and delivery complexities but not all. If you’re interested in midwifery care, but unsure if you are a candidate for midwifery care, let us know and our team will evaluate who is best suited to care for you.
Are Midwives covered by Insurance?
Yes! Midwifery care is covered under all Oregon healthcare plans.
How are Midwives trained?
Our midwives are certified nurse-midwives. They are registered nurses who then pursued a masters or doctorate degree to become nurse practitioners with certification in midwifery and reproductive health.
Do you do home birth or water birth?
Our midwives perform deliveries at St. Charles Medical Center and do not offer home birth. You are welcome to labor in the water but delivery in water is not currently offered at St. Charles.
Will the Midwife I see in pregnancy be at my birth?
Our goal at ECWG is to give you the safest care possible through collaboration with our OB partners. To do so we rotate who is on call doing deliveries to ensure the provider on call has had time to rest. Our midwives rotate at the hospital and attend deliveries 4-5 days a week during the day, while our physician colleagues cover nights and weekends. There is always a physician on call to support labor and delivery.