The new virtual Women’s Assessment Service run by the Women’s and Children’s Health Network means women, regardless of their location in South Australia, can choose to receive an urgent assessment from an experienced midwife via video link.
Women experiencing symptoms such as pain or bleeding in early pregnancy or other gynaecological concerns, will no longer need to present and wait in an emergency department during such a challenging time.
“This innovative Women’s Assessment Service will ensure that women, regardless of their location within South Australia, can access prompt support and care,” says South Australian Minister for Health and Wellbeing, Chris Picton.
The new virtual service – the first of its kind in Australia – is opening for a 12-month pilot following a successful trial. One hundred per cent of women who accessed the trial service reported they would use it again, and that they would prefer to use a virtual service rather than presenting to hospital.
The service is available to women who are:
- Less than 20 weeks pregnant and experiencing symptoms of pregnancy loss
- Pregnant and are experiencing nausea and vomiting
- Experiencing gynaecological issues
Women who access the virtual Assessment Service are seen by an experienced midwife, and then an Obstetrics and Gynaecology doctor if needed (either virtually or in hospital if required).
“There is no doubt for a woman who may be experiencing early pregnancy loss, waiting in an emergency department, or waiting to see a midwife in a clinic when surrounded by other expectant women, can be a stressful and even heartbreaking experience,” says Rebecca Graham, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Women’s and Children’s Health Network.
The new service builds on the success of the WCHN Child and Adolescent Virtual Urgent Care Service (CAVUCS), which has now safely provided advice to more than 30,000 child and adolescent patients. The Malinauskas Labor Government has invested $30.8 million over four years to make CAVUCS a permanent ongoing service.
The new service is available between 8am to 4pm, 7 days per week, and can be accessed on the WCHN website.
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