StarShine at Children's Hospital Medical Center of Cincinnati has developed a Perinatal Hospice to fill a void for parents facing the birth of a child with a terminal condition. Perinatal Hospice services create a bridge of support during the transitions from pregnancy to parenthood to bereavement . After being told that their unborn baby has a fatal condition for which there is no cure, parents are often overwhelmed with questions and decisions, fear and grief. In collaboration with clinical geneticists and genetic counselors, the StarShine staff addresses the needs of expectant parents and siblings, as well as preparing for the needs of the infant. The team provides medical, psychosocial and spiritual counseling for parents during their pregnancy and after the birth of their child.
Support is offered to the other children in the family as well.
A birthing plan is created that is consistent with the individual family's belief system. The hospice team creates special treasures and keepsakes of the newborn. If there is a live birth, the infant can be admitted to hospice as appropriate. The hospice team offers support and guidance for families as they cope with their grief and work through their decisions. And, of course, they assist with the planning of final arrangements and memorial services, as needed.