Hon Tony Ryall
National Party Health Spokesman

10 November 2005

Midwife crisis worsening

The maternity crisis is worsening, with Rotorua and Taupo women facing birth without their own midwife, says National’s Health spokesman, Tony Ryall.

“Here is yet another health issue the Government has not taken seriously. Only now are they waking up to the crisis facing maternity care,” says Mr Ryall.

“It’s been reported that Rotorua women are having to turn to over-worked hospital midwives because they can’t find a local independent midwife.

“This shortage is only going to get worse, and there’s a real risk that more and more women will miss out on vital support throughout their pregnancy.

“The Government has known midwives are deserting the industry in droves but has done virtually nothing to stem the crisis. The proposed fee increase is too little, too late,” says Mr Ryall.

ENDS

© Scoop Media