quick tip - If you are searching for a doc, best way to find out who to see is by going into a birth center and asking the nurses. Make sure you let them know you will keep their opinion private but you'll get the best answers every time!
**I am a labor and delivery nurse who recently moved to Seattle from San Francisco. I am passionate about patient advocacy/choice, especially during birth (as long as the baby is safe). The saying goes, "if you don't know your rights, you don't have any." In most of Washington, you will need to bring a support teat that is vocal about your wishes and not afraid to advocate for you. WA state has one of the highest cesarean section rates in the country (long story as to why).
Truth be told, Salish Women's Health take care of their patients like their own. I love love love Dr. Kurachi and all of the OB's she works with. I am 4.5 months pregnant with my first and I wanted to choose someone who had my best interested in mind and who also was patient with birth - it takes time to be born and there's no rushing it unless needed. I've always imagined myself delivering in the hospital with a midwife but I've found these doctors to function in similar spirit.
This group listens to your requests, there's no mocking involved, and they are really great people "behind the scenes," too. For example - I've never seen Dr. Kurachi in a bad mood and I've spent a lot of time working with her! Besides that, she is incredibly competent.
May I also make a side note: The nurses you work with during birth are super important. Sometimes more important than the docs/midwives. Northwest Hospital has a wonderful group of nurses - I want them to deliver my baby!
more