Birth of new antenatal support service

– Dion Teasdale
YARRA Valley Community Health Service has commenced an antenatal support service for pregnant women living in the Upper Yarra area.
The program is a partnership initiative between the Angliss Hospital, Healesville Hospital, Yarra Valley Community Health Service and Yarra Ranges Best Start.
The clinic encourages women to attend antenatal care in the early stages of pregnancy and has a particular focus on women who have difficulty gaining access to doctors or antenatal care.
This free service is provided by a general practitioner/obstetrician and midwife, and includes antenatal care, education, support and information.
Midwife Kathym Mallows said the service was developed by several service providers in the Upper Yarra.
“(The service) is a response to a significant number of women attending the Angliss Hospital to give birth who had little or no contact with a doctor or midwife during their pregnancy,” she said.
Ms Mallows said research indicated the more support a woman received during her pregnancy the better the birth outcomes.
This includes a healthier baby and a more prepared and supported mum.
“There are many challenges for expectant mums living in the Upper Yarra including the lack of bulk billing of medical services, the distance needed to travel to access antenatal care and education, and the lack of public transport,” she said.
“The new service will provide pregnant women with local easy access to support – we welcome inquires and new referrals.”
The service is open every Wednesday at 2473 Warburton Highway, Yarra Junction.
For more information or to make an appointment contact the Yarra Valley Community Health Service on 5969 9937.