From 5 pm Monday 30 March until Friday 3 April 2009, the West Coast District Health Board will not have Obstetric and Gynaecology specialists at Grey Base Hospital.
Arrangements have been made with Canterbury District Health Board to provide services in Christchurch. Expectant mothers who are assessed as high risk are being asked to relocate to Christchurch over this period. Low risk services remain available at Grey Base Hospital
Those women affected are being advised by their Lead Maternity Carer.
Reasonable travel and accommodation costs will be met by the West Coast District Health Board.
The West Coast District Health Board is continuing to face tight staffing for this service due to a shortage of New Zealand registered specialists, and further service disruptions are possible from time to time. Women should contact their Lead Maternity Carer if they have any questions.
The Board is working with other District Health Boards to find solutions, and extensive efforts continue to be made to find specialist cover.
Bryan Jamieson
Community Liaison Officer
West Coast DHB
PO Box 387
Greymouth 7840
Phone (DDI): (03) 769-7665
Mobile: 027 245-9595
Email: