Memorial Hermann Hospital – TMC SOAP Re-Accreditation
We are pleased to share that the UTHealth Houston Division of Obstetric Anesthesiology has been re-accredited as a SOAP Center of Excellence (COE) (external link) for 2026. This designation is an honor that reflects our team’s consistent, day-to-day commitment to providing high-quality care for the mothers and families we serve.
What is the SOAP Center of Excellence?
The Society for Obstetric Anesthesia and Perinatology (SOAP) established the Center of Excellence program to recognize institutions that go beyond standard practices in obstetric anesthesia care. Rather than just a title, it serves as a rigorous quality metric. To earn this, a program must demonstrate a high level of clinical expertise, patient safety protocols, and a dedication to improving maternal health outcomes on a national scale.
Building on a Strong Foundation
This recognition continues the progress our team has made over the past several years. We are grateful for the groundwork laid by Dr. Maya Suresh, who initiated the original accreditation process in 2021.
The 2026 re-accreditation was spearheaded by Dr. Barbara Orlando, Chief of Obstetric Anesthesia, alongside a dedicated multidisciplinary team.
“Maintaining this designation is a testament to our team’s unwavering commitment to maternal safety,” says Dr. Orlando. “It confirms that our patients receive thoughtful, world-class care during one of the most significant moments of their lives”.
A Collective Effort
The “Center of Excellence” title belongs to the entire care team. It is the result of a seamless partnership between:
- The UTHealth Houston Department of Anesthesiology
- The UTHealth Houston Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences
- The Women’s Center at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital
Dr. Orlando specifically noted that this success was made possible through the essential contributions of Charlie Artime, MD; Sean Blackwell, MD; and Aydrien Robinson, DNP, MSN, MBA, RNC-OB.
As one of only 90 institutions nationwide to receive this designation in 2026, we view this recognition as both an honor and a responsibility. It strengthens our commitment to ongoing improvement and to providing safe, high‑quality care for mothers and infants.
