Kathryn Wray was one of the last women to give birth in the Gosford Private Hospital’s maternity ward when she welcomed a baby girl on Friday.

Ms Wray chose private obstetric care because she wanted an elective caesarean section.

“Especially as somebody who has endometriosis, I wanted continuity of care,” she said.

Ms Wray said knowing the ward was due to close made the past few months a rollercoaster of emotions.

“You feel quite special because you can kind of see everyone we’re coming into contact with, it’s a very significant day for them and we have gotten the benefit of that,” she said.

“Everybody has been so nice and amazing but … it’s very disappointing, it’s very sad.

“It’s just the experience we were hoping for and we know we’re not going to get that experience again in the same place.“

Kathryn Wray and Sam Boughton are disappointed maternity services are closing. (Supplied: Kathryn Wray)

Since the closure was announced in October 2024, there has been an outpouring of community concern about the lack of choice for women in a region with a population of 350,000 and growing.

Midwife and educator, Carol Norton, said she was worried about the prospect of expectant mothers travelling longer distances for private obstetric care.

“This is wrong, this is really wrong,” she said.

She said births could become quite unsafe if women were travelling while in labour.

A woman with blonde hair and glasses there is a tree branch in the background — Carol Norton is worried about the impact of the closure of the only private maternity ward on the Central Coast. (ABC Central Coast: Mary-Louise VInce)

Saying goodbye

Table of Contents

Saying goodbye
Removal of choice
A wider problem

Private Maternity Ward Closure Shrinks Birthing Choice for Central Coast women

Obstetrician Peta Skilbeck said delivering her final baby at Gosford Private was bittersweet.

“It’s a very nostalgic and emotional time,” Dr Skilbeck said.

“The most emotional part of the last birth for me was standing next to a midwife who has been working as a midwife for 45 years.

“These are a group of midwives who really need to be celebrated.”

Up to 20 midwives have lost their jobs at the hospital as a result of the closure.

“We will lose some very skilled obstetricians and gynaecologists as well,”

Dr Skilbeck said.

Rather than moving elsewhere to work in a private hospital, Dr Skilbeck said she would offer private services in the public hospital.

She said it meant antenatal care would be provided through her private clinic and she would deliver babies in the public maternity ward.

“It’s a busy unit, there is a lot of work being done to try and help make the transition as smooth as possible for the women of our community,” she said.

“There’s going to be a lot of little hiccups and adjustments that will need to be made and it’s a work in progress.”

A woman with blonde hair wearing a red top looks unhappy — Peta Skilbeck says she will keep delivering babies on the Central Coast. (ABC Central Coast: Shauna Foley)

Removal of choice

More than 400 babies were born at Gosford Private Hospital last year.

In a statement, Central Coast Local Health District said Gosford Hospital was preparing for an extra up to 400 births each year.

“Any local women impacted by the private hospital maternity services closure can access safe, high-quality care that meets their individual needs at Gosford Hospital,” the statement reads.

But the Gosford Hospital has recently experienced challenges in obstetrics.

The Royal Australiasian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists has taken trainee doctors out of the hospital for at least six months due to concerns about clinical supervision and safety.

The local health district said it was working with the college to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for trainee registrars.

The outside of a hospital building. — The operator of Gosford Private Hospital says maternity patient numbers were in decline. (ABC Central Coast: Shauna Foley)

A wider problem

The Central Coast is the latest region to lose access to private maternity care.

At least eight private maternity wards have closed across Australia in the past two years, with two more closures pending in Hobart and Darwin.

In a statement, Healthe Care, the owner of Gosford Private Hospital, blamed the closure on decreasing demand for private maternity services on the Central Coast, increasing cost of living pressures, and challenges with private health insurance funding for private hospitals.

A NSW parliamentary report has recommended the government takes urgent action to re-establish deteriorating maternity services across regional areas.

The select committee on remote, rural and regional health found that obstetrics, gynaecology and midwife staffing shortages were leading to birthing unit closures or reduced availability.

date: 2025-03-31 04:53:00

Private Maternity Ward Closure Shrinks Birthing Choice for Central Coast women

Expectant mothers on the Central Coast are facing a challenging new reality following the recent closure of [Hospital name]’s private maternity ward. This decision significantly reduces the availability of private birthing options in the region, raising concerns about access to personalized care and increased strain on existing public hospital resources.

The Impact on Central Coast Families

The closure of a private maternity ward represents more than just a logistical inconvenience; it directly impacts the choices available to families preparing for childbirth. Private maternity wards frequently enough offer amenities and personalized services that some families prioritize, including:

Private Rooms: ensuring greater privacy and comfort during labor and postpartum recovery.
Dedicated Midwifery or Obstetrician Care: Consistent care from a chosen medical professional throughout the pregnancy and birth.
Enhanced Amenities: Including gourmet meals, specialized breastfeeding support, and partner accommodation.

With this option now unavailable,Central Coast women seeking thes benefits are forced to consider alternative solutions,which may involve traveling long distances for care or adjusting their birthing plans.

Why the Closure? Understanding the Contributing Factors

While the impact of the closure is clear, understanding the reasons behind it is crucial for addressing the broader challenges facing maternity care. Several factors may contribute to these types of decisions, including:

Financial Sustainability: Private hospitals frequently enough face financial pressures balancing the cost of maintaining specialized services like maternity care with revenue generation. Declining birth rates or changing patient preferences can impact financial viability.
Staffing Shortages: Attracting and retaining qualified midwives, obstetricians, and nurses is an ongoing challenge, especially in regional areas. Staffing shortages can make it arduous to maintain a fully operational maternity ward.
Regulatory Changes: Changes in healthcare regulations and compliance requirements can add to the operational costs and complexities of running a maternity ward.
Insurance Reimbursement Rates: Reimbursement rates from private health insurers can influence the profitability of providing private maternity services. If rates are deemed insufficient, it can place a strain on the hospital’s finances.

Alternative Birthing Options for Central Coast Women

Despite the reduced choice,expectant mothers on the Central Coast still have several birthing options available. Understanding these alternatives is essential for making informed decisions:

public Hospitals: [Name of Public Hospital 1] and [Name of Public hospital 2] offer maternity services. While they may not provide the same level of privacy or amenities as private wards, they offer a complete range of medical care and support. Be aware that public facilities may be BUSIER due to increasing demand.
Birth Centers: For low-risk pregnancies, birth centers offer a more home-like habitat with a focus on natural childbirth. However, it’s crucial to check availability and ensure the birth center is equipped to handle potential complications. Consider options outside the immediate Central coast area.
Home Birth: Under the care of a qualified midwife, home birth can be a suitable option for some women. It offers the most personalized and intimate setting,but it’s essential to assess the risks and benefits carefully and ensure access to immediate medical care if needed.
Traveling to Other Regions: Consider hospitals in [mention nearby regions/cities, e.g., Sydney, Newcastle] that still offer private maternity services. However,this option involves travel and potential accommodation costs.

Choosing the right option depends on individual circumstances, medical history, and personal preferences. Consult with your doctor or midwife to determine the safest and most appropriate birthing plan for you.

Navigating the Public Hospital System: Practical Tips

With a potential increase in demand for public hospital maternity services, here are some practical tips for navigating the system:

Book Early: As soon as you confirm your pregnancy, contact the public hospital to book your place. Demand is likely to increase.
Attend Antenatal Classes: These classes provide valuable information about labor, birth, and postpartum care. They also offer an prospect to connect with other expectant parents and healthcare professionals.
Prepare a Birth Plan: While it’s important to be flexible, having a birth plan helps communicate your preferences and priorities to the medical team.
Advocate for Yourself: Don’t hesitate to ask questions, express your concerns, and advocate for your needs during labor and delivery. Bring a support person who can assist you.
Understand Hospital Policies: Familiarize yourself with the hospital’s policies regarding visiting hours, pain relief options, and postpartum care.

The Role of Midwives: A Growing Importance

With the reduction in private maternity options, the role of midwives becomes even more critical. Midwives provide comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, offering a personalized and holistic approach. They can work in various settings, including:

Public Hospitals: Many public hospitals employ midwives as part of their maternity care team.
birth Centers: Midwives are the primary care providers in birth centers.
Private Practice: Some midwives offer private home birth services.

Consider the benefits of having a midwife as part of your healthcare team, regardless of your chosen birthing location. They can provide continuous support, empower you to make informed decisions, and promote a positive birthing experience.

Case Studies: Real-Life Experiences

To illustrate the impact of the private maternity ward closure, consider these hypothetical case studies based on potential real-life scenarios:

Case Study 1: Sarah, First-Time mother with private Health Insurance

Sarah, a 32-year-old first-time mother with private health insurance, had planned to deliver her baby at [Hospital Name]’s private maternity ward. She valued the privacy and personalized care that a private setting offered. Now, she faces a difficult decision: either travel to a hospital in [nearby city] which adds considerable travel challenges, or deliver at the local public hospital, accepting possibly less privacy and a more standardized level of care. She’s feeling anxious and uncertain about her options.

Case Study 2: Maria, Experienced Mother Seeking Continuity of Care

Maria, a 38-year-old mother of two, had previously delivered her children at the private maternity ward. She had built a strong relationship with her obstetrician and valued the continuity of care. Now, she’s concerned about giving birth in a public setting where she may not have the same level of familiarity with the medical staff and where her preferred obstetrician might not be available. She is exploring the possibility of a home birth with a private midwife to maintain control over her birthing experience.

First-Hand Experience: A Central Coast Mother’s Perspective

Note: This is a simulated first-hand account.

“When I found out I was pregnant, one of the first things my husband and I did was research private maternity options on the central Coast.We wanted a peaceful and private environment for the birth of our first child. The closure of [Hospital Name]’s ward came as a complete shock.Suddenly, our carefully laid plans were thrown into disarray. The thought of navigating the public system, especially with the added pressure from the closure, is daunting. I worry about not getting the same level of individualized attention and support. We’re now considering a birth center further away,even though it means more travel for us and our families during those crucial first few days. It’s frustrating to feel like our choices have been limited.” – Emily, Central Coast Resident

Advocacy and Community Support: What Can Be Done?

The closure of the private maternity ward highlights the need for advocacy and community support to ensure that Central Coast women have access to quality maternity care. Here are some ways to get involved:

Contact Your local Representatives: Express your concerns about the impact of the closure and advocate for increased investment in maternity services.
Support Local Maternity Organizations: Donate to or volunteer with organizations that provide support to expectant mothers and new families.
Share Your Story: Raise awareness about the challenges facing Central Coast women by sharing your experiences with decision-makers and the media.
Join or Create a Support Group: Connect with other expectant mothers and share information, resources, and emotional support.

A Comparison of Birthing Options

Option	Pros	Cons
Public Hospital	comprehensive medical care, access to specialists, lower cost.	Potentially less privacy, longer wait times, shared rooms.
Birth Center	Home-like environment, focus on natural birth, midwife-led care.	Limited medical interventions,may not be suitable for high-risk pregnancies.
Home Birth	Personalized care, cozy setting, complete control over birthing experience.	Requires careful planning, potential for medical emergencies, limited access to pain relief.
Traveling to Other Regions	Access to private maternity wards and a wider range of choices.	Increased travel costs, longer distance from support network, logistical challenges.

Long-Term Solutions: Ensuring Lasting Maternity Care

Addressing the challenges facing maternity care on the Central Coast requires a long-term, sustainable approach. Some potential solutions include:

Increased Government Funding: Advocating for increased government funding to support public hospitals and maternity services.
Incentives for Healthcare Professionals: Attracting and retaining qualified midwives, obstetricians, and nurses by offering incentives such as scholarships, relocation assistance, and improved working conditions.
Collaboration Between Public and Private Sectors: Exploring opportunities for collaboration between public and private hospitals to share resources and expertise.
Investment in Telehealth: Expanding access to telehealth services to provide remote consultations, monitoring, and support to pregnant women in regional areas.

Private maternity ward closure shrinks birthing choice for Central Coast women