Call the HACSU Helpline
1300 88 00 32
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| Autumn 2002 |
HACSU lobbies for Midwifery Members
The HACSU Nurses Sub Branch has sent a detailed submission to the Southern Region's Maternity Options Assessment and Review. The submission covered a number of structural issues and shortcomings within the services, as well as making a number positive suggestions. Some of the points made in the submission include;
- The fact that options within the public health system are limited by staffing, eg option of KYM (Know Your Midwife) scheme is limited,
- Lack of continuity of care. Women are often seen by different staff doctors and midwives,
- Women in the public system left unattended in labour when staff are required to attend other women labouring. There should be a requirement for adequate staff to be allocated to "be with" women during labour in the supporting role of midwifery.
- Deep baths for pain relief are not available at RHH,
- The main focus currently is on birth and nothing much on what happens after discharge. Improvement needed between hospital and community health services eg home visiting program, particularly for women in rural areas with transport problems,
- Option of home birth and allocation of funds for this option to be purchased by consumers - no public or private cover at present,
- Women with intellectual disabilities - parenting often alone. Query role of public health services and safety of infant? Co-ordination of services involved.
- Awareness and sensitivity for women who have experienced abuse. Importance of taking relevant history and awareness of the impact this can have on birthing, breast feeding and parenting, depression etc.
- Breastfeeding - the single most critical difference to short and long term health status - not adequately supported when women are discharged 24 - 48 hours post birthing,
- Antenatal classes at RHH are 3 hourly sessions. Pregnant women find this too long and tiring,
- Childbirth is a unique opportunity for health education within the family unit, supporting a universal Home Visiting Program would improve health outcomes for Tasmanians.
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