The Bacchus Marsh and Melton Regional Hospital has received funding to improve its fetal monitoring systems and maternity services in the wake of the baby death scandal.
Forty-six Victorian public hospitals will share in $1.4 million as part of the state government’s commitment to “strengthen” maternity services following an investigation into the hospital that found there were 11 preventable baby deaths between 2003 and 2014.
According to an auditor-general’s report tabled in Parliament earlier this year, senior clinicians raised concerns about the hospital’s capacity to manage its maternity services years before an investigation was launched.
But the many red flags – including professional competency issues and concerns demand for maternity services was outstripping clinical capacity – were ignored, by the health department because of “internal communication” problems that “resulted in fragmented responses”, according to the auditor-general’s report.
Health Minister Jill Hennessy announced last Thursday that the Bacchus Marsh hospital would receive $28,000 to better train and equip doctors, nurses and midwives. She said the state government was “doing everything” it could to ensure Victoria’s maternity services were safe.
“It’s crucial that hospitals continue to train and develop their staff so they have the skills they need to better monitor women and their babies before giving birth,” Ms Hennessy said.
A Bacchus Marsh hospital spokesman said there had been “significant investment” since last year’s investigation to ensure the hospital could meet current and future demand.
“Bacchus Marsh and Melton Regional Hospital achieved full National Safety and Quality Health Service Standards accreditation earlier this year,” he said.
“And we have engaged in extensive staff development under the leadership of chief executive Andrew Freeman, his talented team and the dedicated staff.
“New senior clinical practitioners have joined the service and contributed extensively to improving standards of care, safety and systems.
“The new clinical governance framework now in place at Djerriwarrh Health Services gives assurance of a safe, secure and fully functioning service.”
