Pricing, policies, and what to expect

What is the fee for using the Rinita Birth Centre facility?

The cost to use the Rinita Birth Centre facility is $600 (no GST). This is not covered by Alberta Health Services.

Prior to registering for Rinita Birth Centre, you must discuss with your midwife if you are a good candidate for out-of-hospital birth.

If you have supplementary health insurance/benefits plan through your employer, this expense may be summitted by you and reimbursed as a “Private Hospital Room” expense. *Note: we are a private medical facility and are not registered as a “hospital” with most insurers so you may be required to get authorization from your insurer. Our fees are usually covered through Health/Wellness Spending Account. We do not direct bill to your insurance company and we have no information regarding what your plan will cover. Please call them directly to find out.

Birth centre fees can also be claimed as a medical expense on your annual income tax return.

We issue “official” receipt for insurance purposes after the birth (because we may end up refunding you if you do not use the facility – see refund policy on this page).

Upon registration you may choose to pay in full or to pay in installments.

If paying in installments:

1st Payment: non-refundable registration fee of $100 (no GST) is required to secure your booking

2nd Payment: $250 (no GST) is due at or before 32 weeks

3rd Payment: $250(no GST) is due at or before 37 weeks.

Please let us know in your registration form if you need a customized payment plan.

Fees can be paid by e-transfer to info@rinitabirthcentre.ca or in person with cash.

Your room fee is also considered a medical expense on your annual income tax return.

What is the refund policy?

If the fee has been paid, but a birth suite is not entered during any time of labour or delivery, then the user fee portion of $500 will be refunded. Please email info@rinitabirthcentre.ca to request a refund.
Should the birth room be occupied or unavailable during your labour, a full refund will be available to you.
If you have supplementary health insurance, this may provide coverage for birth centre fees. You can also deduct the birth centre fee from your income tax as a medical expense.
We book limited spots each month to reduce the chance of the room being occupied when you need it.

When should I come to the Birth Centre?

Clients can be admitted to the Birth Centre once they are in active labour.
Your midwife will spend time discussing the labour process with you so that you are prepared for the big day.
She will ensure you understand how, and when, to contact her once your labour begins.
You must speak with your midwife before coming to the Centre.

What should I expect when labouring at the Birth Centre?

Once you are admitted, you are free to use your birthing suite however you need to support your labour, and to feel comfortable, safe, and at home.
Your midwife will be with you the whole time, and will prepare you in advance for what to expect during your labour and birth.
We welcome your whole birth team which may include family, friends, doulas, or birth photographers.

Safety:

Emergency medical supplies for birther and baby.
In case of an emergency transfer Sturgeon hospital is 5 minutes away.

What should I expect after my baby is born at the Birth Centre?

After your baby is born, your midwife will provide routine care for you and for your baby, and you will have an opportunity to establish breastfeeding, snuggle as a new family, and take a shower.
You will be offered a nourished meal (perogies, bacon, sausage, waffles, yogurt parfait with granola, juice, coffee, tea). We will accommodate your dietary restrictions as needed.
Once your midwife has completed the routine postpartum care and you have had a chance to rest, you will head home within three-four hours of birth.
Your midwife will give you clear instructions about what to expect and how to cope with any problems, and she will visit you at home within the first 24 hours.