Welcome to Spruce!
Andaluz Waterbirth Center has a new platform for client communication - Spruce Health!
Spruce is a secure and HIPAA compliant communication app for healthcare providers. It will allow you to communicate directly with your midwives while maintaining a high level of security over your personal health data, including photos and text conversations.
How do I get started with Spruce?
We will send you an invitation! You will receive a text message with a link to follow to download the Spruce Health app. You will set up a profile with your contact information.
Don’t forget to allow the app to send you notifications, so that you know when your midwife texts you back.
How do I use Spruce?
You will use Spruce to text or call your midwife whenever needed.
To text your midwife, open the app and select "Andaluz Waterbirth Center,” then you can compose your message like any regular text message. You can include photos in your message if needed. Your text will go to all three of your assigned midwives, if you want to reach one specific midwife, start the text with their name, like “Hi, Carrie!”
To call your midwife, open the app and select “Andaluz Waterbirth Center,” then select the phone icon on the top right. Follow the menu to select your midwife’s extension. This will ring to her personal cell phone.
To video call your midwife, open the app and select “Andaluz Waterbirth Center,” then press the camera icon top right.
Does this still allow me to reach my midwife directly on her personal cell phone?
Yes! Your messages and calls still go directly to your midwife’s cell phone.
Can I use Spruce to schedule or cancel appointments?
No. Spruce provides a direct line of communication between you and your midwives, not the office staff.
For general questions, billing questions, and to schedule or cancel appointments please continue to use our main office number 503-885-0228.
Do I use Spruce in an urgent situation?
If you are experiencing a health emergency, always call 911.
If you have an urgent need to contact your midwife, please call using the Spruce app or by dialing 503-868-2631 and follow the instructions on the menu.
Select your primary midwife’s extension.
If your midwife doesn’t answer, hang up and call back again immediately. This signals you have an urgent need.
If your midwife doesn’t answer on your second attempt, she may not be available. Call back and select the extension for the next midwife on your phone tree.
Do I use Spruce when I think I’m in labor?
Yes! You can use Spruce to communicate with your midwife about your labor. You can either text or call your midwife about your labor signs and progress.
Why are you using this app?
Previously, we have had clients reach out to midwives through the midwives personal cell phone number. Compared to normal SMS texting, using Spruce for communication is much more secure and HIPAA compliant. This is especially important if you are sending your midwives photos or private health information.
Spruce still allows direct conversation with your primary midwife, but also allows our entire midwife team to view client messages and ensures your care is well coordinated and everyone on your team is on the same page.
Do I have to use the app?
No. We encourage you to download the app, but if you prefer to not use it you can text or call the new number just like any other phone number. If you do not use the Spruce app, however, your communication will not be as secure.
Here is the new phone number: 503-868-2631
Please save this number in your phone, even if you plan on using the Spruce App. This number will also be included on the midwives’ business cards.
Any other questions about using Spruce? Please reach out to Callai, our Outreach & Education Coordinator.
