Moray maternity services expansion on the table at board meeting

Published: 14/12/2022 09:32

NHS Grampian's Board will review detailed plans for the expansion of Moray maternity services this week, which include the delivery of consultant-led services at Dr Gray’s Hospital in Elgin. The papers are being considered following a recent Board visit to Dr Gray’s Hospital and ongoing engagement with the Scottish Government. 

The joint NHS Grampian NHS Highland plan outlines a clear and fast-tracked plan for the delivery of a full consultant-led service, as part of a networked model with both health boards working in partnership. The paper provides context and background, as well as outlining the benefits of delivering a networked model and how this could provide the foundation for a full consultant-led service. This is an important step in the journey as it includes expanded antenatal care, scanning and foetal medicine care in Elgin delivered by consultants and midwives. The draft plan for establishing a contemporary, sustainable service will also make consultant-led births possible at Dr Gray's Hospital.

On 15th December 2022 the NHS Grampian Board will consider the detailed planning around ways of working and the number of additional midwives, obstetric consultants, anaesthetists required to deliver the consultant-led service. The paper also sets out the accommodation and equipment requirements related to expanding services, including need for a dedicated theatre, available 24-hours a day for emergency obstetric use.  A recruitment and marketing plan is also proposed to attract specialists to the North of Scotland.  

Simon Bokor-Ingram, Chief Officer for Moray Health and Social Care Partnership who is leading plans to re-shape maternity services in Elgin commented: 

"NHS Grampian is committed to the delivery of a consultant-led obstetric service delivered at Dr Gray’s Hospital and we understand the need to deliver these services as soon as practical. This week our Grampian NHS Board will consider a draft plan, which will deliver at pace our proposals for the delivery of a contemporary, sustainable obstetric service within the next few years, to operate alongside the existing excellent midwife-led service, bringing significant benefits to Moray mums and their families."