The Great Southenr Star - October 1, 2019

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03 5662 2294 www.thestar.com.au Tuesday, October 1, 2019

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MIDWIFE CRISIS Leongatha ward closure hits expecting mums

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EONGATHA Hospital’s maternity ward was closed for two days last week as understaffing and skyrocketing staff sick leave hit crisis point. The ward was closed from 9pm last Tuesday to 9pm last Thursday. The closure is the second in two months. Last time, the ward was also closed for two days. One expectant mum, who was due to give birth in coming days, feared she would be looking for alternative hospitals. “I will have to go to Wonthaggi and that is a 40 minute drive and I have children to look after at home, so it is a worrying time for us,� she said. “I have a lot of other friends in town who are preg-

nant and they may not be able to go to their own hospital either.� Hospital CEO Mark Johnson said he could not rule out further closures in the future, as the hospital struggles to attract and retain midwives. “We can’t categorically say it won’t continue to happen again. When sick leave occurs there’s the possibility we’ll be forced to go to diversion,� Mr Johnson said. “Our ultimate priority is to ensure we’re providing a safe service. We’re not going to suggest women come into birth if we can’t provide a safer service – that’s our number one aim.� Mr Johnson said patients could make the trek to Wonthaggi, Foster, Warragul and Traralgon, but the “choice is up to the birthing mothers in the end�. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5.

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The Great Southenr Star - October 1, 2019 by The Great Southern Star - Issuu