July 1, 2010

Update - Obstetric and Gynaecology Services at West Coast District Health Board

Further to the release of 28 June 2010, the West Coast DHB wishes to advise that currently they have no specialist Obstetric & Gynaecology cover available onsite from the morning of Monday 12 July 2010 until the morning of Friday 16 July 2010.

There are also staffing issues for portions of the following two weeks, however recruitment efforts for locum staff are continuing in an effort to eliminate or minimise gaps in specialist coverage. Women expected to birth over the next two months will be kept informed as to the situation as it affects them.

Arrangements are now being made for maternity patients at high risk of complications during this time to re-locate to Christchurch. Decisions regarding the relocating of individuals will be made by expectant mothers in consultation with their Lead Maternity Carers and Christchurch Women's Hospital.

Women due to give birth, who do not have any previous history indicating a higher than normal risk, will have the choice to plan on delivering on the West Coast as normal or travelling to Christchurch.

Lead Maternity Carers will have direct access to advice and support from Christchurch Women's Hospital during this time.

Recruitment efforts to source locum staff are continuing. Because of this there may be changes in the timing and duration of service gaps. At this time we do not forecast any further gaps in obstetric specialist staffing beyond the three week period indicated above.

Information Sheet

For more information please contact

Bryan Jamieson
Community Liaison Officer
West Coast DHB
PO Box 387
Greymouth 7840
Phone: (03) 769-0499, Extn 2665#
Mobile: 027 245-9595
Email: