Midwife faults board for neglecting mums

A West Coast midwife has criticised the region's shortage of specialists as the West Coast District Health Board admits its maternity services are "fragile".

Independent midwife Robyne Bryant, of Hokitika, said the lack of specialist obstetric and gynaecology cover was placing an unnecessary strain on families.

Staff leave and a locum shortage has left the health board with gaps in obstetric and gynaecology cover this month.

Three West Coast mothers with potential pregnancy risks have been transferred to Christchurch Hospital as a result of the shortages.

Bryant said the situation appeared to be avoidable.

"The board must have known their specialist was going to take leave," she said. "For mums to be transferred from their homes places a huge strain on families."

There were problems over the safety of mothers and their babies, she said.

"Three-quarters of the West Coast population already live outside the `golden hour', and now they are facing an even longer trip to get specialist care if something goes wrong."

Bryant said she was concerned about the mounting pressure being placed on Coast midwives.

"Occasionally we do need backup. There is potential for a lot of risk in labour, and we are supposed to work in partnership with the obstetrician," she said.

Hokitika mother-of-four Trish Barlow said it appeared to be cheaper for mothers to be sent to Christchurch than receive obstetric care on the West Coast.

"But if your husband has to stay at home to work and your family's not there, it's horrible."

The Canterbury District Health Board said this week that a new partnership between the two health boards would improve women's health services on the West Coast.

The Canterbury board's women's and children's division general manger, Pauline Clark, said West Coast staff were working hard, but the system, especially for maternity care, was "fragile".

Exchange visits between Coast obstetric and gynaecology senior medical officers with those based in Christchurch would start in October, she said.

- © Fairfax NZ News