The transition took place in July this year, following notice from the previous service providers who established the Primary Birthing Unit in Alexandra 23 years ago.
“I’m so proud of our team for the dedication to their roles during this time,” says Southern DHB Service Manager Rural Health, Debi Lawry. “There were a lot of changes happening in the background and yet our staff didn’t miss a beat providing comprehensive ante-natal, birthing and post-natal care to our community.”
The Maternity Unit remains in the same location in Alexandra, but is now staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“Having experienced maternity professionals available around the clock will help build confidence in our community and Lead Maternity Carers,” says Debi. “We have 14 staff on the books – a mixture of midwives, registered nurses, an educator and a cleaner to care for women before, during and after giving birth.”
Since the transition, three mothers have given birth in the Unit, which boasts three private post-natal rooms with queen-sized beds and a delivery room with a birthing pool.
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