Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) services are expanding to Mobile Infirmary through a new telemedicine agreement that increases access to high-risk obstetric care in the Mobile region.
In Alabama, access to maternal-fetal medicine services is significantly limited—creating barriers to high-risk care and contributing to rising maternal and infant morbidity and mortality. Patients often find themselves driving hours to receive the specialized care they need.
This new collaboration connects subspecialty expertise with patients and providers in the region, reducing the need for travel while supporting coordinated, high-quality care. Through virtual consultations, care teams can collaborate in real time on complex cases, strengthening clinical decision-making and improving outcomes for mothers and babies.
“Oftentimes, patients find themselves driving hours to nearby care,” said Akila Subramaniam, M.D., MPH, associate professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Maternal-Fetal Medicine division director. “In an effort to improve access, this exciting Mobile Infirmary–UAB MFM partnership will provide access to the southwestern corner of our state.”
The initiative reflects a shared commitment to advancing women’s health across Alabama by expanding access to specialized care closer to home. Leaders say this effort is an important step toward building a more connected system of care for high-risk obstetric patients.
“This telemedicine partnership with Mobile Infirmary represents an important step forward in the delivery of high-risk obstetric care,” said Jennifer Kelley, MSN, MSHA, associate vice president, Women’s Health Service Line and vice chair in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. “It reflects our shared commitment to improving outcomes for mothers and babies across the state through innovation and collaboration.”
Kelley also recognized key contributors to the effort, including Niki Marsh and her team for their expert guidance and support to the Mobile Infirmary sonography team, as well as Dr. Subramaniam and the MFM Division for their leadership and commitment to advancing care through collaborative models.
“This innovative enterprise could not be possible without the great collaborative efforts of our department leadership, ultrasound leadership, and the respective care teams at UAB and Mobile Infirmary,” Subramaniam added. “This first step is hopefully part of a continuing collaborative enterprise to grow access to high-quality services across the state.”