August 03, 2002

Private obstetrics under threat

Very interesting juxtaposition of articles in the Sydney Morning Herald this morning (August 2, 2002) - the front page carries a feature stating that many obstetric units in the private sector are about the close because their professional indemnity insurance premiums are through the roof and they can’t afford them. The additional charges will add about 5% to private health insurance premiums for individuals too (which the Federal Government will partially underwrite through their 30% rebate scheme) so that in reality every tax payer will contribute.

On Page 3 there is a story about the birth of a son to Australian of the Year, Pat Rafter and his partner Lara Feltham at the Selangor Private Hospital in Nambour, Queensland. This private hospital, as is well known in Australia, has arguably the best maternity (note: not an obstetric) unit in the country with outstanding results based on a midwifery model of care. It is clear that the Rafters chose this unit for its outstanding results and low tech approach, in keeping with their philosophy.

The Herald, however, in true journalistic style, says “Selangor Hospital is popular with high-profile couples because of its views of the Sunshine Coast hinterland and its security”. No mention of the real reason - wonderful midwifery care, reduced risk of complications, best chance of a normal birth for breech, twins and following previous caesarean birth etc etc.

It would be wonderful to think that the owners and operators of the other private obstetric units around the country, who have left themselves wide open to litigation because of their high rates of unnecessary interventions, would take a leaf out of Selangor’s book and encourage independent midwives to take clients there rather than courting the doctors (and their potential disasters). I’ve even heard of one private hospital in Queensland where one obstetrician boasts a 100% caesarean rate - what can they be thinking of?? Is it any wonder that health insurance premiums are rising given this abuse of the system (let alone the women)? It is another reason why I am glad that I have not been lured into taking out private health insurance - I don’t want to have to pay for these kinds of excesses, through my taxes in quite enough, thank you!

Posted by andrea at August 03, 2002 03:19 PM

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