Finding the right OBGYN in Destin FL is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your pregnancy. You’re not just choosing a doctor — you’re choosing the person who will be with you through some of the most vulnerable and significant moments of your life. You deserve someone who is warm, skilled, and genuinely invested in both you and your baby.
To help take one thing off your plate, I’ve put together a list of three trusted OBGYNs in the Destin and Miramar Beach area who are all currently accepting new patients. All three practice together at Ascension Sacred Heart OB/GYN in Miramar Beach — which means if you ever need to see a colleague, you’re still in great hands.
Dr. Blakele Bakker — OBGYN in Destin FL
Dr. Blakele Bakker is a board-certified OB/GYN at Ascension Sacred Heart on the Emerald Coast and one of the most highly rated providers in the area. She received her medical degree from Florida State University College of Medicine and has been delivering babies at the Family Birth Place at Sacred Heart Emerald Coast since joining the practice.
Dr. Bakker specializes in obstetrics and gynecology with a particular focus on high-risk pregnancy — which makes her an especially valuable provider for mamas who need a little extra monitoring and care throughout their pregnancy. She performs inpatient and outpatient gynecologic surgery and provides comprehensive prenatal care from your first appointment through delivery and beyond.
Patients consistently describe her as caring, attentive, and excellent at explaining medical information clearly. She takes her time, answers questions thoroughly, and makes patients feel genuinely seen — not rushed through an appointment. She is accepting new patients and most major insurance plans including Medicare, Aetna, Cigna, and Blue Cross.
📍 7720 US Highway 98 West, Suite 310, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 📞 (850) 267-2961 🌐 healthcare.ascension.org
Dr. Brett Tidwell — OBGYN in Destin FL
Dr. Brett Tidwell is a board-certified OB/GYN at Ascension Sacred Heart and one of the most beloved doctors on the Emerald Coast. He earned his medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his residency at the University of Florida College of Medicine, where he earned the second-year resident teaching award. The Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine also granted him the third-year resident award for Excellence in Obstetrics — recognition that reflects both his clinical skill and his commitment to his patients.
Dr. Tidwell has a focus in high-risk obstetrics, making him a strong choice for mamas whose pregnancies require extra care and attention. He delivers at the Family Birth Place at Sacred Heart Emerald Coast and sees patients through every stage of their prenatal journey.
What sets Dr. Tidwell apart more than anything is his bedside manner. Patient reviews describe him as one of the kindest, most compassionate physicians they have ever encountered — someone who listens earnestly, spends real time with you at every appointment, and treats you like family rather than a number. He has delivered multiple children for the same families over the years, which speaks to the trust his patients place in him. If you’re looking for an OBGYN in Destin FL who will make you feel genuinely cared for throughout your pregnancy, Dr. Tidwell is one of the best.
📍 7720 US Highway 98 West, Suite 310, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 📞 (850) 267-2961 🌐 healthcare.ascension.org
Dr. Anne Marie Piantanida-Whitlock — OBGYN in Destin FL
Dr. Anne Marie Piantanida-Whitlock is a board-certified OB/GYN at Ascension Sacred Heart in Miramar Beach, practicing alongside Dr. Bakker and Dr. Tidwell at the same office. She earned her medical degree from Florida State University College of Medicine and has a special interest in minimally invasive gynecologic procedures and general obstetrics.
Beyond obstetrics, Dr. Whitlock also specializes in female reproductive health conditions, menopause care, emotional health, and breast health — making her a wonderful long-term provider for women who want continuity of care from pregnancy through every stage of life. She offers telehealth appointments in addition to in-office visits, which is a helpful option for busy mamas who can’t always make it in.
Patients consistently describe her as knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely attentive. She is the kind of doctor who reviews your file before you walk in the door, notices details that other providers have missed, and takes the time to actually listen to your concerns. She has served as obstetrician for multiple pregnancies for the same patients — which is always one of the best signs you can find when choosing a provider. She is currently accepting new patients.
📍 7720 US Highway 98 West, Suite 310, Miramar Beach, FL 32550 📞 (850) 267-2961 🌐 healthcare.ascension.org
How to Choose Your OBGYN in Destin FL
With three excellent options at the same practice, you really can’t go wrong — but here are a few things worth thinking about as you decide.
Ask about their delivery philosophy. Every doctor has a slightly different approach to labor and delivery. If you have strong preferences — about interventions, pain management, skin-to-skin contact, or anything else — bring those up at your first appointment and see how your doctor responds. A good OBGYN in Destin FL will welcome those conversations.
Consider who will deliver your baby. In a group practice, your doctor may not always be the one on call when you go into labor. Ask how the practice handles on-call coverage so you know what to expect.
Trust your gut at the first appointment. You should leave your first prenatal visit feeling heard, informed, and comfortable. If you don’t, it’s completely okay to try someone else. Finding the right fit matters more than sticking with the first person you see.
Book early. OBGYNs in the Destin area fill up quickly, especially during peak season. As soon as you get a positive test, start making calls. Many practices want to see you around 8 weeks.
Final Thoughts on Finding the Right OBGYN in Destin FL
Pregnancy is one of the most significant seasons of your life and you deserve a provider who treats it that way. All three of these OBGYNs in Destin FL are experienced, board-certified, compassionate, and accepting new patients at the same Ascension Sacred Heart practice in Miramar Beach. Call the office, ask your questions, and trust yourself to know who feels right.
Once you’ve found your doctor and you’re settling into this beautiful season, I’d love to capture it for you. A maternity session on the beaches of Destin is one of those things mamas always tell me they’re so glad they did.
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