UAB recognized as 'Center of Excellence' for their work on obstetrics

BIRMINGHAM, AL - The University of Alabama at Birmingham received the Center of Excellence designation from the Society of Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology.

Dr. Yasser Sakawi, M.D. is a professor of anesthesiology as well as the interim vice chair for the Division of Obstetric Anesthesia

"In 2024, we began the re-designation application process with results announced in 2025," said Dr. Sakawi. "A collaborative effort between anesthesia, obstetrics, nursing, informatics and pediatrics was initiated to provide all of the detailed elements that were requested for the rigorous process."

The COE criteria encompass key aspects of obstetric anesthesia care, such as staffing, equipment, protocols, team training, emergency management, labor analgesia and quality assurance.

Dr. Fran Burgan, M.D. is an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology.

"Leaders from labor and delivery and postpartum nursing, obstetrics and anesthesia physicians, and HSIS banded together to not only make this happen, but also make it patient-centered," said Dr. Burgan.

The SOAP COE program was established in 2018. It serves as both an acknowledgment of excellence and a benchmark to elevate care standards nationally and internationally.

Economic developer Dr. Nicole J. Wadsworth explained, "UAB's re-designation as a Center of Excellence by the Society of Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology highlights its leadership in maternal health care. The recognition reflects a collaborative effort across multiple medical disciplines to uphold the highest standards in obstetric anesthesia, ensuring patient safety and quality care. By continuously advancing best practices, UAB enhances the quality of life for mothers and families, which reinforces Birmingham's distinction as a hub for world-class medical care."

The SOAP Center of Excellence designation recognizes outstanding obstetric anesthesia care across a diverse range of health care facilities.

UAB is the largest employer in the state of Alabama.

Based on original reporting by Courtney Cole