Pregnant women in Caithness confront dangerous conditions to access maternity services.
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Healthcare challenges in Caithness
The plight of pregnant women in Caithness has come to the forefront as First Minister John Swinney faces mounting pressure to address the dire situation. A recent report by the Scottish Human Rights Commission has highlighted the ‘barbaric’ conditions that expectant mothers must navigate, often forcing them to drive over 100 miles through treacherous winter weather to reach maternity services in Inverness.
Impact of downgrading maternity services
In 2016, the maternity unit at Caithness General Hospital in Wick was downgraded from a consultant-led service to a midwife-led one. This change has had significant repercussions for the region’s pregnant women.
Many now find themselves in a precarious position, especially those classified as high-risk or first-time mothers. The journey to Inverness, typically taking over two hours, can extend to three hours or more, depending on the weather and road conditions. This situation has raised alarms about the safety and well-being of both mothers and their newborns.
Testimonies reveal alarming incidents
Testimonies from women in the region paint a harrowing picture. Some have reported losing their fertility due to delays in reaching Raigmore Hospital during emergencies, with incidents of ovarian torsion and hemorrhage being documented. Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton has voiced concerns in Holyrood, stating that women are left ‘terrified’ by the prospect of long, dark drives, often encountering wildlife on the roads. He emphasized the urgent need for action, questioning what measures the First Minister plans to implement to ensure the safety of these mothers.
Government response and future considerations
In response to the growing concerns, First Minister Swinney acknowledged the challenges posed by the lengthy journeys. He emphasized that decisions regarding clinical safety are guided by strong medical advice. While he expressed willingness to engage with Cole-Hamilton and other stakeholders to address the issues, the situation remains critical. Finance Secretary Shona Robison recently outlined a budget that includes funding for healthcare improvements, yet critics argue that it falls short of addressing the urgent needs in Caithness.
Community calls for action
The community is increasingly vocal about the need for immediate solutions. With reports of women relocating or opting against having more children due to the healthcare crisis, the urgency for reform is palpable. As discussions continue in Holyrood, the focus remains on ensuring that all women in Caithness have access to safe and timely maternity care, free from the fear and danger that currently defines their experiences.
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