Summary
A reminder that we are re-configuring the balance of maternity and newborn services across our sites to meet changing patient needs across our catchment.
Monash Health Women’s is re-configuring the balance of maternity and newborn services across our sites to meet changing patient needs across our catchment and improve quality and safety.
These changes will be introduced in a phased manner between February and April. We will be reviewing the changes regularly to ensure they are progressing well.
Our aim is to deliver safe, sustainable maternity and newborn services that meet the changing needs of our communities. These changes reflect year-on-year data showing an increased need for high-acuity care in the Berwick region, and a declining need for this level of care locally at Dandenong Hospital.
- There will be an increase in weekend medical support for maternity and newborn services at Casey Hospital.
- Dandenong Hospital will align birth suite beds and maternity beds with current demand.
- Dandenong Hospital will change from Level 4 maternity capability to Level 3, and change from Level 3 Special Care Nursery capability to Level 2.
- There will be a 3-bed nursery integrated within the maternity ward, allowing mothers to be closer to their babies.
What does this mean for maternity referrals to Monash Health Women’s?
We do not anticipate any change for the majority of women.
Some women initially booked to give birth at Dandenong Hospital may be transferred to Casey Hospital or Monash Medical Centre instead, depending on clinical circumstances.
If you have any questions about these changes, please reach out to Nicole.Carlon@monashhealth.org.