Big changes are coming to one local hospital.

UPMC Bedford will stop delivering babies starting December 1, 2017. This is the only hospital in Bedford that has an OB service so patients are now being directed to UPMC in Altoona to give birth.

Hospital officials tell us prenatal care, childbirth classes, postnatal care, gynecological surgeries and women’s specialty care will continue at UPMC Bedford Memorial in Everett.

We’re also told Bedford Memorial obstetrician/gynecologists will maintain their office in Everett and discuss changes with pregnant patients during office appointments and by letter.

We did reach out to nearby hospitals to see if they plan to keep their services and if they’re ready to pick up any new patients.

JC Blair told us they’re prepared to serve any expectant mother in the region.