Code Brown sends Maternal and Child Health nurses into hospitals
Published on 04 February 2022
Local Councils will now provide additional, temporary support to maternity and neonatal health services, following the Victorian Government's recent announcement of a Code Brown in hospitals across the state.
From Monday 7 February, Council Maternal and Child Health (MCH) nurses will support services impacted by the changes and help to relieve any additional pressure resulting from the pandemic. The MCH nurses will assist in hospital birthing suites and with the Extended Post Natal Care Program — where a hospital Midwife visits new babies once discharged.
The nurses, who are all also qualified Midwives, will head to Frankston Hospital and Monash Health, Clayton and Casey campuses for an initial six week period — ending Friday 11 March.
Frankston City Mayor, Nathan Conroy, said Council’s MCH staff are eager to have the opportunity to provide this additional support during a difficult time.
“Our Maternal and Child Health nurses are by nature passionate and caring people, who are dedicated to helping parents and babies to thrive.
“They are excited to be supporting the best possible outcomes for the provision of midwifery, neonatal and MCH services for women, infants and families in our community.
“Our staff are also aware that our hospital system has been under considerable strain these past few months and we will do anything necessary to support our amazing healthcare workers,” Mayor Conroy said.
As a result of the redeployment, Council is prioritising Maternal and Child Health service delivery for its youngest and most vulnerable residents only.
Temporary priority will be given to:
- Infants aged 0-8 weeks and their mothers/caregivers.
- Aboriginal infants and children of all ages.
- Infants and children of all ages with additional needs or concerns, including those on the Enhanced MCH program and those with COVID-19.
- Families can continue to access a range of supports, including through the 24/7 Maternal and Child Health Line, GPs and SuperCare pharmacies.
Some MCH services and consultations may be paused or cancelled for older infants, children and families with no additional needs or concerns.
Council’s Manager Family Health Support Services, Claire Benzie, said Council is working hard to ensure the disruption to regular mother and baby health checks is minimal.
“In addition to prioritising vulnerable families, please know we are still here to support you and there are many avenues for families who have concerns or questions while our usual capacity is limited.
“Caring for young families is a passion our staff share with many other healthcare providers in our community, who are struggling right now under an overwhelming workload and difficult working conditions.
“We believe this common goal and this time spent working together will strengthen the ongoing relationships between our services and enhance future opportunities to collaborate — ultimately benefitting our community,” Ms Benzie said.
During the reduced service period, MCH parents can:
- Contact your regular MCH service if you have significant concerns and need MCH consultation to proceed.
- Call the Maternal and Child Health Line 13 22 29. The 24/7 Line is staffed by qualified MCH Nurses and provides confidential support and advice about the care and health of your child (from birth to school age).
- Contact your regular General Practitioner or other regular health professional.
- Visit a SuperCare pharmacy which provides 24/7 access to healthcare advice and pharmacy services, including a free, on-site nursing service from 6–10pm each night.
- Contact an Optometrist for vision testing
Information for parents about the short-term change is available via the Better Health website.