The terms of reference have been released for an investigation into obstetrics and gynaecology services in Mackay Hospital and Health Service.
Chief Executive Lisa Davies Jones said the investigation would be independent, wide ranging and examine the management, administration and delivery of obstetrics and gynaecology services.
It will review feedback received through the dedicated phone line that opened on 12 October 2021 and also examine incidents and complaints recorded by Mackay HHS from 1 July 2019 to 31 October 2021.
Further, the review will look at other grouped data relating to individual clinicians or the whole service recorded between 1 July 2019 and 31 October 2021.
The investigation will examine the safety and quality of the services, including referencing the rates of complications.
It will also look at issues associated with the training of junior doctors in obstetrics and gynaecology and associated connections to safety and quality of services.
Ms Davies Jones said the independent external investigation would start on 1 November.
“Mackay HHS takes all concerns seriously and I expect the independent reviewers will assess all feedback thoroughly,” Ms Davies Jones said.
“If any woman is yet to provide feedback she wants considered now is the time to do so on our hotline,” she said.
The review will be led by Dr Greg Duncombe and Professor Edward Weaver with support from Professor of Midwifery at Griffith University Mary Sidebotham.
The review panel will now also include consumer representative Leah Hardiman.
All reviewers are from outside MHHS and under the Part 9 legislation governing the investigation, they alone will determine how they address the terms of reference.
Ms Davies Jones said the investigation findings would be shared with the community after the review panel has reported back on their investigation.
“We will engage widely on their report and where appropriate co-design changes with staff, our Maternity Consumer Reference Group and other stakeholders.”
To view the terms of reference click here.
Read more on the investigation here.
