For Emily F. Hoffman, CNM, WHNP, caring for families is not just a career—it’s a lifelong connection to the very community she now serves.

“I was born at South County Hospital, delivered by Dr. Joseph O’Neill, and grew up in South County my whole life,” Emily shared. “I attended South Kingstown High School, volunteered in the Emergency Department here for three years, and earned my National Honor Society hours through that work.”

That early connection deepened over time. “I have now been blessed to have both a niece and a nephew born here, and countless loved ones cared for at South County Hospital. It is incredibly special, and "full circle," to know that our community hospital has been a beacon of love, skill, and support for so many.”

Answering a Calling

Emily’s path to midwifery began with a single clinical rotation in nursing school. “I went into nursing and found labor and delivery during one of my earliest rotations, and it felt like a true calling,” she said. “To care for women, be by their sides during such a vulnerable and intense time in their lives, to help make families and help women become mothers—that was the most fulfilling feeling.”

That calling only grew stronger in graduate school. “When I started actually delivering babies, I was hooked.”

Empowerment at the Center of Care

Today, she describes her work in simple but powerful terms. “The thing I love most about my job is working with and empowering women. It is incredibly meaningful and gives my life immense purpose.”

Care Rooted in Community

Above all, Emily wants her patients to feel seen, understood, and supported. “I want patients to know I am one of them. I am a mom, woman, sister, daughter, and member of this community. We are better together, and we all deserve true compassion and understanding. Doing this work at South County Health makes me love where I live more every day.”