Today, there is a story in the “Caithness Courier” in which it is reported that “Planning permission has been granted for an expansion of maternity wards and services at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness”. Excellent news. But, apparently, NHS Highland says “the expansion will enable MORE WOMEN FROM CAITHNESS, as well as Moray, TO GIVE BIRTH IN THE HIGHLAND CAPITAL”.
Are we missing something here? In 2022 there were 210 new Caithness Babies. 202 of the mothers gave birth in Raigmore. What is the plan here? 100%? Has NHSH actually listened to what CHAT has been saying? Have they paid attention to a single word said by countless Caithness mums? Are they aware of the media coverage, in print and on TV? Judging by the quote given, it would appear not.
Ron Gunn, Chair of CHAT said “
“The disproportionate number of women who have to travel the A9 south is really incredible, more than 90 per cent are considered to be ‘complex births’ and that really is not a tenable figure. But for us in Caithness this development is very concerning if its motivation is to see more not less births from the county at Raigmore, which of course deserves the best possible facilities – as do we in Caithness.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson is reported to have said “Safe maternity care as close to home as practicable is vital”.
Yes. we know. We have told you so repeatedly. And a 100 mile plus journey in the depths of winter is not “safe”, nor is it “close to home”.
Worth buying the Courier, or , if you subscribe, here is the link:- https://www.johnogroat-journal.co.uk/news/caithness-maternity-care-questions-still-not-answered-338328/
Caithness Health Action Team 