A new, technologically advanced foetal monitoring system is to be introduced to regional maternity sites, improving the patient experience for thousands of expectant mothers every year.
Minister for Health, Roger Cook said the K2 Infant Guardian System used artificial intelligence to support clinical reviews of foetal heart-rate patterns.
Mr Cook said Bunbury Regional Hospital would be the first to introduce the new foetal monitoring System, with the rollout continuing to all WA Country Health Service (WACHS) maternity sites across this year and next.
He said WACHS medical, nursing and midwifery staff would undergo full training in the System, which does not require a sonographer to operate.
“This innovative use of technology to deliver healthy outcomes for regional maternity patients builds upon previous WACHS successes in this space, including the expansion of the highly-successful Midwifery Group Practices model of care,” Mr Cook said.
“Bringing a new baby into the world should be a special time for expectant families and this technology puts the patient experience at the forefront of clinical care.”
The Minister said the System ensured the mother was included in the review and decision-making process throughout her pregnancy and birthing journey “which we know plays a big part in improving foetal wellbeing”.
“Providing this type of digital support for clinical decision-making is critical in achieving our goal of providing high-value, innovative healthcare to all Western Australians,” Mr Cook said.
