Corewell Opens New C-section Suite

Corewell Health Zeeland Hospital recently celebrated the grand opening of its newly relocated and enhanced C-section surgical suite, marking a significant investment in maternal and infant care for the Zeeland community. 

“As we focus on quality, we are taking better care of the people who rely on us when it matters most,” hospital chief nursing officer Linda Schaltz said. “This new C-section suite aligns our facilities with the exceptional level of care our teams provide every day.”  

By relocating the C-section surgical suite to the birthing center, the hospital will significantly reduce emergency C-section response times.  

“In critical moments, every second matters,” said Tom Fasbender, D.O., OB-GYN department chair at Corewell Health Zeeland. “This new suite allows us to act quickly and efficiently, minimizing delays, reducing anxiety for patients and families and improving outcomes.”  

The updated design enhances privacy and comfort by eliminating the need to transport patients through multiple hallways and departments, allowing for continuous, seamless care in a calmer and more supportive environment. Increased space, improved workflow and new staff amenities, including expanded locker rooms, also support care teams and a growing number of team members. 

“As our birth volumes increase, this new suite allows us to provide faster, more coordinated care,” Family Birthing Center nurse manager Janet Wilks said. “Care teams have already been training together in the new space, conducting drills to support seamless collaboration between surgical and obstetrical staff.” 

Hospital leaders, clinical staff, community members and philanthropic partners gathered May 7 to commemorate the opening of the C-section surgical suite.  

“This moment marks a big milestone for little lives,” said Janine Dalman, director of the Corewell Health Foundation West Michigan at Zeeland Hospital.  

Dalman also recognized the leadership and generosity of Sue and Tom Den Herder, along with the foundation board, for their contributions to the surgical suite and broader hospital expansion efforts.  

The new surgical suite, designed by Ghafari Associates and built by The Christman Company, aims to improve patient safety, comfort and the overall experience within the Family Birthing Center.  

“Knowing this space will serve families during one of life’s most meaningful moments makes this project especially rewarding for our team,” Christman senior project manager Chad Craddock said. “We’re proud to support Corewell Health as they enhance care for the Zeeland community.”