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WOMEN'S & CHILDREN'S

MATERNITY SERVICES

Despite a busy year the staff performed an exceptional job in developing a very supportive innovative program. The program has developed strong links with women in the community and staff have welcomed them to our program. The VAHS, from its early years, has seen a gradual increase and acceptance of the Alternative Birthing Program.

The VAHS encourages women and their partners to attend monthly Boorai Classes where education and awareness programs are provided on a range of topics. The Midwife, and Health Workers run the classes and play a major part in the sharing and dissemination of information.

The program is committed to providing programs which empower our women to have a say in their ante-natal/post-natal care at both the VAHS and in mainstream agencies and services

The Unit has developed a Shared Care Program with the Mercy and Royal Women's Hospital. Bernadette, our Midwife is a provider at both these Institutions and this has been of great support and benefit to the VAHS and more particularly to our women, who are entering the hospital system. A co-ordinated clinical care program such as this is successful, because it allows the VAHS to provide most of the ante-natal checks at the VAHS, and it has the support of all of the services.

The Program's Transport Service is vital to the success of the programs. Staff are able to assist clients with pick ups and drop offs for their health checks, or appointments at both the VAHS and other mainstream health agencies.

Obstetrician/Gynaecology

A Specialist from the Mercy Hospital provides one session per month at the VAHS. We have seen a steady increase in the numbers of women attending for appointments. The availability of the Specialist increases the flexibility of GP referrals, women self-referring and the development of clinical advice to the maternity program. It has also highlighted the need for such a service at the VAHS and has assisted in improved communication and access to and from the Royal Women's Hospital Oncology Services and Transitional Clinics.

The VAHS is a member of the Australian Childhood Immunisation Registrar (ACIR) and this has improved access to children's records, and electronic data entry ensures up to date information for our clients on the ACIR.

Alternative Birthing Clinic

This service includes:

  • Family Planning
  • Antenatal & Postnatal Care
  • Boorai Classes
  • Home Visits/Outreach
  • Shared care with three Major Hospitals in Melbourne

Boorai Classes

These classes are part of the Maternity program and are held the 1st Wednesday of each month at VAHS and are for Women that are pregnant or who have had their baby.

There is a different range of topics that are covered each class. We also encourage dads and other family members to attend the classes.