A new strategy for streamlining access to information and services relating to pregnancy, birthing and neo-natal care has been released for public comment.
Launching the Maternity Access Strategy, Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Meegan Fitzharris said it would take a Territory-wide approach to informing women about birthing choices in a community setting close to their home.
“We know more and more women are choosing to use public maternity services in Canberra due to the quality of those services and the growing expense of private health care,” Ms Fitzharris said.
Under the proposed model, women would call one phone number to arrange their first appointment with a midwife; meet a midwife early on to talk about public pregnancy and birthing options available as well as their preferences and health care needs; and receive local support before, during and after pregnancy.
“We want to make it easier for women and their families to access high-quality maternity care that’s close to home and ensure that they get the right information about the maternity care options available to them,” Ms Fitzharris said.
“After broad consultation with new mums, mums-to-be, health practitioners and community organisations, we can now share the proposed model with the broader community.”
She said she looked forward to hearing the feedback and incorporating it into the model.
Information about the strategy and details on how to contribute can be accessed on the YourSay website at this PS News link.
