TUMUT GP OBSTETRIC BIRTHING SERVICES MUST CONTINUE

The Independent Member for Wagga Wagga, Dr Joe McGirr, has called on to the Minister for Regional Health and the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) to ensure obstetric birthing services continue in Tumut.

This follows reports that the doctor currently providing those services has had restrictions placed on his practice.

Dr McGirr has written to Minister Ryan Park and the health district to seek assurances that replacement GP obstetric birthing services will be sought to allow mothers to be able to give birth in Tumut where that is safe and appropriate.

“While I understand that due process must be followed, the fact remains that it is unacceptable for the Tumut community to remain without GP obstetric birthing services,” Dr McGirr said.

“I share the community’s concerns over this development and have asked the Minister and the MLHD to take the steps necessary to ensure GP obstetric birthing services continue.

"It’s essential that the health service clearly communicates its plans to the community.

“This matter highlights the fragility of maternity services in regional NSW, and I continue to press the Minister to outline the government’s progress towards releasing its Maternity Action Plan as a key step towards enhancing and protecting services to the regions.

“It also highlights the importance of my Rural Health Action Plan which aims to provide rural, regional and remote communities with the health care they need and deserve, and I will continue to work with the government to adopt the sensible and cost-effective reforms outlined in the plan.”