When Latrice Quinn walked through the doors of UAB Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology for the first time, she was not an employee but a patient. What she didn’t know then was that the compassionate care she received would inspire her to return, not as a patient, but as a vital part of the team, ensuring other mothers felt just as supported as she had.

Quinn’s journey began with a difficult loss. She recalls the kindness and empathy of the emergency room doctors and the surgical team after experiencing a miscarriage.

“From the ER doctors to the staff in the operating room, everyone made me feel like I was truly cared for,” she said. “Even in one of the hardest moments of my life, they took the time to comfort me.”

When she became pregnant again, she returned to UAB’s care. This time, she visited multiple ambulatory OB/GYN clinic locations—Western, Central, and Gardendale—and with each appointment, she experienced the same level of compassion and attentiveness.

“I never felt rushed. I could ask as many questions as I needed, and they always answered them fully,” Quinn remembered.

Her experience giving birth at UAB was equally special. Having previously delivered at hospitals in Mississippi, she was surprised by the thoughtful touches UAB provided, like a celebratory meal with sparkling juice after delivery.

“It made me feel at home,” she said.

Quinn’s delivery was also unique in another way—she opted for a completely natural birth.

“It was my first completely unmedicated birth,” she shared. “The midwives were incredible. They listened, supported, and guided me through the entire process, making sure I was as comfortable as possible.”

The presence of midwives and the encouragement from her friend, who acted as a doula, made all the difference in her experience.

It was after her birth experience that Quinn realized she wanted to give back to the same community that had supported her so deeply. Having worked in patient care before, she decided to apply for a position within UAB OB/GYN Maternal-Fetal Medicine.

“I always wanted to work in OB,” she said. “I wasn’t sure if I’d get the job, but I put in my application, and here I am!”

Now, as a patient service coordinator, she is crucial in ensuring expectant mothers feel welcomed and cared for. While her responsibilities differ from her past hands-on patient care roles, she finds fulfillment in being a familiar face for many patients throughout their pregnancy. “I get to see them come in for their visits, and then later, I get to see them with their babies,” she said warmly. “It’s amazing to be part of their journey.”

Reflecting on her transition from patient to employee, Quinn emphasized the importance of teamwork.

“Whether you’re on the hospital side or the clinic side, teamwork is everything,” she explained. “It’s what makes things run smoothly and ensures our patients get the best care possible.”

Though she has decided that her own pregnancy journey is complete, she now finds joy in supporting others as they navigate theirs.

“Now, I just get to watch all the moms come in and help them enjoy their pregnancy,” she said with a laugh.

From being on the receiving end of care to becoming an integral part of the caregiving team, Latrice Quinn’s journey is a testament to the profound impact compassionate medical care can have on a patient’s life. Through her work at UAB, she now guarantees that every mother who walks through the doors feels just as supported as she once did.