Hardin Medical Center and Lifespan Health Featured in National Documentary on Maternal Health
- Lisa Peterson
- May 3
- 2 min read
Updated: May 4
SAVANNAH, Tenn. (May 3, 2026)— Hardin Medical Center (HMC) is proud to announce that its Women's Center is featured in the upcoming documentary Perilous Passage: Birth in America, premiering on HBO Max on May 4, 2026. The film brings national attention to the maternal health crisis in the United States, highlighting hospitals that are leading the way in safe, patient-centered care, especially in rural communities.
The opportunity began in fall 2024, when senior producer Erica Baumgartner of See It Now Studios reached out to HMC after learning the Women’s Center was one of only six rural hospitals in Tennessee selected for the TeamBirth Initiative, a distinction that reflects the hospital's commitment to exceptional care for mothers and babies. The documentary is executive-produced by Christy Turlington Burns of Every Mother Counts.
The film explores rising maternal mortality, shifting reproductive policy, and the growing number of “maternity care deserts” across the country. Within that reality, HMC stands as a model for how rural hospitals are meeting the moment with innovation, collaboration, and compassion. The documentary follows HMC's implementation of TeamBirth, a care model centered on communication and shared decision-making to improve outcomes and the birth experience.
Also featured is Lifespan Health of Savannah, along with OB/GYN physicians Dr. Greg Mitchell and Dr. Lindsay Harbin, who practice at Lifespan Health and deliver babies at the Women's Center at HMC, demonstrating the strength of local partnerships in ensuring continuity of care. HMC CEO Jim Edmondson, who also serves on the Tennessee Perinatal Advisory Committee, is featured for his leadership in advancing maternal health at both the local and state levels.
“As a rural hospital, we know how critical it is for mothers to have access to safe, high-quality care close to home," said Lisa Peterson, Director of Marketing at Hardin Medical Center. “We are honored to be part of this national conversation and proud of the work happening every day in our Women's Center.”
Led by Christy Turlington Burns, Perilous Passage: Birth in America highlights hospitals and organizations nationwide working to improve maternal health outcomes. The Hardin Medical Center Women's Center is recognized as a model for safe, patient-centered care in a rural setting.
The documentary Perilous Passage: Birth in America premieres May 4, 2026, and is rated PG-13 for thematic material and childbirth scenes.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lisa Peterson
Director of Marketing
Hardin Medical Center
Phone: 731-926-5070
Website: www.HardinMedicalCenter.org
For the media: Brand Guide & Media Kit
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