Birthing services are returning to Whyalla Hospital and Health Service on Monday, 1 July, after being closed for over a year.
A critical lack of midwives forced the closure in June last year, but the Woonabie Birthing Unit is now ready to open its doors for those with low-risk pregnancies who are at 37 weeks or more gestation.
This comes after the Malinauskas Government commissioned an independent review to find out how to reopen the facility.
Key recommendations from the review included appointing a permanent senior Director of Midwifery and relocating the birthing unit to a newer part of the hospital.
Flinders and Upper North Local Health Network Acting Chief Executive Officer Angela McLachlan says these changes were a drawcard for midwives, with several relocating from the United Kingdom.
“Access to modern birthing facilities in Woonabie Unit has been crucial in assisting us to attract staff and has also supported our international recruitment efforts,” Ms McLachlan says.
Midwives will now be available on-site or on-call and will respond to maternal emergencies around the clock.
