A new public mother baby unit has opened at the Royal Hobart Hospital to fill the gap left by the pending closure of St Helen’s Private Hospital.
The three-bed unit in Campbell St’s K-Block is designed to provide support for mothers experiencing mental health challenges, including postnatal depression and anxiety.
Premier and Health Minister Jeremy Rockliff said the unit would provide “comfortable and home-like facilities separate from the rest of the ward”, specifically designed to cater to the needs of mothers and infants.
Each room in the unit provides ample space and privacy, featuring its own ensuite bathroom as well as shared living and dining areas, a kitchenette and laundry facilities available for use.
The Premier said the service was “an interim solution”, with the Department of Health continuing to work with stakeholders – including private providers and primary care services – to establish a comprehensive model of care for mothers and babies.
The opening of the unit came as shadow health minister Anita Dow criticised the government in Parliament for ‘doing nothing’.
“Right to Information has revealed that despite the Premier being aware of St Helen’s closure, he did not reach out to the operators or offer any temporary support until an alternative arrangement could be found,” Dow said.
Tasmanian mothers can be referred to the public MBU by their treating clinician through Access Mental Health – Tasmania’s state-wide mental health support, triage and referral line – on 1800 332 338.
