Hospitals' key role in the adoption experience

Although adoption offers a positive, moral solution to a problem pregnancy, it often is overlooked and misunderstood. Many birthmothers, for example, turn to independent placements so that their medical costs will be covered--without realizing the risks of such arrangements. In addition to failing to guarantee privacy, such placements tend to provide insufficient counseling and screening of the involved parties. Licensed agencies, on the other hand, not only must comply with the law but also must conform to professional standards of practice. Committed to honoring the confidentiality of all parties, they are in a better position to serve the needs of those in the adoption circle. In addition to developing an awareness of accepted adoption procedures, health care providers have a special role to play during the adoption experience. They must be sensitive to the new mother's situation, helping to affirm rather than undo her decision to relinquish her child. Health care administrators must ensure that hospital policy addresses the rights of all involved in the adoption process and that standards reflect high-quality adoption practice. Providers and administrators also have the opportunity to develop community partnerships that promote a positive image of professional adoption services to the public.