Experienced nursing and midwifery leader Peta Fisher will lead the external review into how birthing services can be re-established in Whyalla as quickly as possible.
Ms Fisher, the Acting Nurse and Midwifery Director at Perth’s Fiona Stanley Hospital, started her week-long review yesterday.
Midwifery services in Whyalla were temporarily halted from Monday, 26 June.
Key stakeholders including current and former staff, midwives, clinicians and executives from the Flinders and Upper North Local Health Network may be called upon to provide information during the review.
Minister for Health & Wellbeing Chris Picton says as a fresh set of eyes to the situation Ms Fisher will be able to carefully analyse and determine what steps can be put into place to re-open birthing services at Whyalla.
While birthing services are temporarily suspended, antenatal and post-natal care will continue to be provided at Whyalla Hospital and medical staff will remain available to respond to medical emergencies.
Women in Whyalla who believe they may be in labour, even in the early stages, should attend the hospital as soon as possible.
