Western District Health Service (WDHS) is introducing a new model of maternity care, with the wellbeing of mothers and babies, as well as the long-term sustainability of the service at its heart.
The new service combines the expertise of local GP Obstetricians with care from experienced WDHS midwives, all in one location.
A new clinic will be established at Hamilton Base Hospital, employing the current team of highly respected GP Obstetricians; Dr Alan Reid, Dr Jan Slabbert and Dr Amy Tai. These specialists will share the care of patients, in collaboration with hospital midwives and allied health professionals.
Maternity Services Coordinator, Midwife, Emily Kelson, says the aim is to provide a comprehensive maternity clinic for families in the region.
“This service will allow us to manage the care of mum’s and bubs in one convenient location. Families can call the new clinic to make an appointment with a midwife, who will then coordinate further consults with our GP Obstetricians during the pregnancy and into the postnatal period,” Mrs Kelson said.
The service will continue to operate as a public model and is fully bulk billed for Medicare eligible patients. This means that most families, regardless of their financial situation, can access high-quality maternity care without worrying about the cost.
WDHS Chief Executive, Rohan Fitzgerald says the new model will also future-proof the service.
“We understand that giving birth is a momentous life event, and the support and care women receive both before and after birth is so important.
This new model aims to enhance the quality of care, accessibility and sustainability of maternity services in the Southern Grampians for many years to come. It safeguards the provision of services by looking after the wellbeing of our team and addressing GP burnout, so common in regional areas. It also aligns with maternity models at other Health Services in Victoria, including Southwest Healthcare in Warrnambool,” Mr Fitzgerald said.
The new maternity services clinic will be based near the Education Centre at Hamilton Base Hospital. To access the service, families first need to make an appointment to see a midwife by calling 03 5551 8390 or clicking here
Mr Fitzgerald says in recent months, WDHS midwives have also been working to make maternity services more accessible in outlying communities.
“Our Midwifery team has set up outreach clinics in Casterton and Harrow, with further clinics proposed for Heywood and Dunkeld in the New Year. It’s all about making it as easy as possible for women to get the care they need,” Mr Fitzgerald said.
Caption: WDHS Midwives with GP Obstetricians Dr Amy Tai, Dr Jan Slabbert, Dr Alan Reid