Australia’s New South Wales (NSW) Government has announced the expansion of the Central Coast Local Health District’s (CCLHD) maternity care at Gosford Hospital to address the anticipated increase in demand after the cessation of private maternity services by Gosford Private Hospital operator Healthe Care.
This expansion is crucial for providing continuous and safe maternity care at Gosford Hospital.
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NSW Central Coast Minister David Harris said: “The NSW government is committed to safe, high-quality health facilities and hospitals for all Central Coast residents. The expansion of services at Gosford Hospital for maternity care continues this commitment.”
Known for its 24-hour support in midwifery, anaesthesia, obstetrics and paediatrics, encompassing a Special Care Nursery, Gosford Hospital is now preparing for an influx of up to 400 additional births annually.
CCLHD is also collaborating with local private obstetricians to ensure a seamless transition.
The Australian Government pledged A$10m ($6.25m) to support the Minns Labor government in maintaining the existing local maternity services.
In response to the increased demand, Gosford Hospital has launched a recruitment drive, filling key senior positions in obstetrics and gynaecology, including heads of department for both specialties.
NSW health minister Ryan Park said: “I can assure women on the Central Coast that they can rely on safe, high-quality maternity care should they choose to give birth at Gosford Hospital.
“The recent recruitment efforts of the Local Health District means Gosford Hospital is well placed to handle the expected increase in activity.”
CCLHD offers a range of maternity care services, including a publicly-funded homebirth programme for low-risk pregnancies, antenatal care at Wyong Hospital, and postnatal care through Midwifery in the Home.
These services are complemented by child and family health services that focus on breastfeeding, early parenting, child development, and immunisation.
Last month, the NSW government announced its intention to introduce legislation that would ban future public-private partnerships (PPPs) in the state’s acute hospitals.
