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Decision against maternity review fails mums

Published: Thu 26 Jan 2006 12:25 AM
Decision against maternity review fails mums and babes
Health Minister Pete Hodgson and the Ministry of Health are failing Kiwi mums and babes by not reviewing maternity services, says National Party Health spokesman Tony Ryall.
He is commenting following today’s release of a report from the Perinatal and Maternal Mortality Review Committee which recommends against a full review of maternity services.
“Kiwi mums and babes deserve the best. We need to be certain past mistakes won't be repeated. A quick once-over by this distracted minister is no review at all,” says Mr Ryall.
"Maternity services need stronger links at the primary care level with midwives and GPs working more closely together. Mums should be seeing more of their doctor during and after pregnancy.
“A review of maternity services would have laid a solid platform for change. Such a review could have identified options for stronger and more collaborative services.
“Midwifery services are under incredible pressure. Many mums are scouring the cities for a midwife to look after them and that is confirmed by this report.
“While the Government continues to do nothing about this, Kiwi mums and babes are being put at risk.
“Late last year, the Wellington Coroner recommended a review after the tragic deaths of two babies, adding to the growing consensus that New Zealand’s maternity services could be greatly improved.
“The Government is foolishly ignoring the Coroner’s recommendation,” says Mr Ryall.
Ends

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