The Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network (BHFLHN) is tackling staffing gaps for birthing services at Victor Harbor Hospital.
On Monday the ABC reported that due to the lack of an anaesthetist, birthing services were suspended on the south coast from midnight Sunday until December 18, and again from December 25 to January 3.
Maternity patients were being directed to the Mount Barker hospital, one hour away, instead.
BHFLHN Interim CEO, Bronwyn Masters said since then, the issue has mostly been resolved.
“Following discussions with local anaesthetists regarding the unexpected leave, the majority of shifts have now been covered,” BHFLHN Interim CEO, Bronwyn Masters said in a statement.
“We are continuing discussions with local and metro anaesthetists to assess their availability as well as assessing locum availability,”
“All expectant mothers have been contacted and advised to present to Mount Barker District Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital during this time in case further anaesthetic care is needed.”
She added that on-call anaesthetists provide occasional airway support to the Emergency Department and MedStar will continue to provide support to patients on the South Coast if required.
There are 10 mothers due to give birth during this time, including four expected to have an elective caesarean, who can be cared for locally.
