Virtual clinic

 PHOTO: GUY WILLIAMS
PHOTO: GUY WILLIAMS
An  expectant mother in Queenstown was the beneficiary of the first telemedicine antenatal clinic between Southland Hospital and Lakes District Hospital yesterday.

Expectant mother Nicola Woodcock (left) is pictured with midwife Jayne Cadby and Mrs Woodcock's daughter Ava (5).

The two women conversed with Invercargill-based obstetrician Suzanne Stainer using Skype in the first ``virtual'' clinic, which will be held on Monday mornings from now on.

Mrs Woodcock, who is 39 weeks pregnant, said the clinic had saved her time and energy from what otherwise would have been a ``taxing'' all-day trip to Invercargill and back. Another benefit was that Mrs Cadby could be with her during the clinic, whereas she would have been alone if it had taken place at Southland Hospital.

Southern District Health Board (SDHB) midwifery director Jenny Humphries said it had consistently received feedback from women and midwives that travel was a barrier, and there were too few antenatal clinics in the district's rural centres.

``Telemedicine is a way of providing increased and timelier access to obstetric care for women with suitable referral reasons.''

An obstetrician based at Southland Hospital would continue visiting the resort once a month for face-to-face clinics.

Add a Comment

 

Advertisement