A final independent report on claims of dangerously low staff levels at the Royal Hobart Hospital’s maternity unit has been released listing 38 recommendations for improvements.
Some of them relate to leadership and culture, recruitment and consumer engagement.
Claims of a staff shortage being implicated in a stillbirth reportedly could not be verified by the independent panel.
Minister for Health, Jacquie Petrusma, said the Tasmanian Government has an ongoing commitment to improving the health services provided across Tasmania.
“We are taking this report very seriously and want to ensure we are doing everything possible to provide safe and high-quality care to mothers and babies at what is a very significant time for families,” Minister Petrusma said.
“I want to acknowledge Ms Amanda Singleton for her important role in leading this investigation and thank her and her panel for their diligent and thorough work in conducting this investigation.
“Importantly, I would also like to thank all of the health consumers and staff who contributed to this investigation through written submissions and in-person consultation sessions that occurred in recent months.”
Secretary of the Department of Health, Dale Webster, said the Department of Health is committed to improving maternity services across the State.
“Rightfully, our health service should be held to high standards when it comes to the delivery of health care to Tasmanians,’’ Mr Webster said.
“As recommended in the report, an implementation committee will be formed to guide and oversee the progress made in improving maternity services.
“This committee will report regularly to me as the Secretary of the Department of Health, and I look forward to seeing this work progressed as a priority in the coming months.”
