SOMC earns “five stars” for nurse communication

Southern Ohio Medical Center recently celebrated a significant milestone in its collaboration with Lifeline of Ohio’s Placenta Donation Program — completing its 400th donation. This achievement makes it one of only two hospitals to reach this benchmark.

With 400 placenta donations, nearly 10,000 healing grafts have been made possible. These grafts are used in a wide range of medical procedures, including surgeries involving the eyes, mouth, and spine, as well as treatments for chronic and difficult-to-heal wounds such as diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure sores, and burns.

Thanks to the generosity of new mothers who choose to donate their placentas, countless patients benefit from these life-changing healing opportunities.

The SOMC OB/GYN Associates team is thrilled to have earned this designation.

"It is an absolute pleasure to work with such amazing people. They are so dedicated to providing the best patient care possible. The placenta donation program has provided benefits that extend way beyond donor grafts.It has given our patients a way to give back and feel a sense of commitment to their community as well. I feel it is a true testament to the dedication SOMC has to serve the community on multiple levels. And it has been my honor to play a small role in such a major accomplishment."

- Ryan Sandlin, DO

"Placental donation has been a blessing for our hospital that I didn't know we needed. There's no cost to the patient, and their reward for donating the placenta is knowing you could help more than 25 people to have healing grafts that can change their lives. As a mother, I wish I had been able to donate my placentas. For my patients, I am grateful for this opportunity to complete a beautiful circle that starts with an embryo. I am thankful for Lifeline of Ohio, the staff at SOMC, and my office, who help coordinate the donation process. To my patients who are truly improving someone else's life with their gift, my heart is overjoyed."

- Jennifer Roberts, DO

"I think our patients love knowing that such a big part of their pregnancy is going to make a huge difference in the world. We are so lucky to have the opportunity at SOMC to participate in such an awesome and life-saving program."

– Arrika Mains, DO

“SOMC achieving 400 placental donations is a remarkable milestone for our community. This simple act of generosity from our mothers has provided healing and progress in medicine for those in need. I am honored to work for an organization that is facilitating healthcare advancements through the contributions of the families in our own neighborhoods.”

– Darienne Liles, CNM

Typically, the placenta is discarded. A single donated placenta, however, has the potential to heal as many as 25 people.

Any expectant mother with a planned C-section is eligible to participate, and their donation does not change any part of the delivery. There is also no cost. For more information about placenta donation, please visit https://lifelineofohio.org/get-the-facts/placenta-donation/.