That was one recommendation arising from Southern District Health Board sector-group workshops discussing the problems faced by the rural maternity services.
The review, announced earlier this year, was sparked when rural maternity providers approached the board for more funding.
Finance and funding general manager Robert Mackway-Jones told this week's board meeting the appointed advisory group was likely to recommend significant changes, given the low birthing volumes and low population catchment areas for which birthing facilities were "competing".
Board member Dr Malcolm Macpherson told the meeting the workshop he attended in Cromwell was "provider-dominated", whereas the board should be seeking the "real experiences" of mothers.
He asked if the board should consider holding a formal public consultation process.
"[The mothers'] views were not captured - you need to ask those people, not just providers."
Mr Mackway-Jones pointed out wider consultation was likely after the February meeting at which the board would receive the formal recommendations.
Board member Dr Branko Sijnja said the board should raise awareness that facilities like Clutha Health First were safe and appropriate places to birth.
Key threats identified in workshops were low birth volumes, a lack of clients for lead maternity carers and midwives, women believing rural services were more risky, and more women having Caesarean sections or difficult births, due to older and sicker mothers giving birth.
Other recommendations arising from the workshops: more funding, greater education and support in rural areas, looking at new "models of care".
