A Benalla Health spokesperson said that in 2024, it paused its birthing services while it worked to recruit and train additional GP obstetricians to work at the hospital.
“While recruitment is ongoing, we have taken the opportunity to review our maternity services, and to develop a new maternity model of care that will strengthen our maternity workforce and support the recommencement of our birthing services,” the spokesperson said.
“We have been working closely with our partners, including local GPs and surrounding health services, as well as our community.
“We remain committed to re-establishing and returning to our birthing services and maintaining a maternity service that consistently delivers best care to every person, every time.
“As we continue to develop this new maternity model of care, from April 1 this year Benalla Health will operate as a level one capability maternity service, providing routine antenatal and care.”
Benalla Health offers a wide range of antenatal services including free antenatal clinics, antenatal classes, early pregnancy classes, breastfeeding support provided by a lactation consultant, domiciliary care for post-birth home care and postnatal care for mothers returning to Benalla Health after giving birth.
The service said it was dedicated to delivering exceptional care and ensuring a safe and high-quality maternity service for the community.
Victoria’s capability frameworks guide how planned maternity and newborn care is safely provided.
You can learn more about Victoria’s capability framework for maternity and newborn services via www.health.vic.gov.au/patient-care/capability-frameworks-for-maternity-and-newborn-care-in-victoria/
