Refugee maternity service

Background

The Refugee Maternity Service is based on a best practice model to support appropriate health care, psycho-social support and resources for women of a refugee background birthing at Mater Mothers Hospital. Pregnant women of a refugee background may have a range of pre-existing medical conditions, such as malnutrition and female genital mutilation (FGM) which can impact on maternal, foetal and neonatal health. The Refugee Maternity Service is staffed by a multidisciplinary team including a lead Obstetrician, dedicated Midwife, Social Worker and Interpreter for continuity of care. This approach will facilitate the development of social support networks for women and their families.

Eligibility

Any woman who has experience as a refugee is eligible for care within the Refugee Maternity Service. This covers people who are Permanent Residents as well as current asylum seekers. Women who are on a spousal visa and who are married to a person of refugee experience are also eligible.

The referral process

Anyone can refer to the Service although it is preferred that a referral comes from the family doctor (GP) via the usual referral method into the Antenatal Clinic.

The referral should be address to Dr Di Poad and a note made within the body of the referral that the woman is from a refugee background. Please include information regarding if an interpreter is required and which language (with dialect) is required.

In the case of an urgent referral, call the Antenatal Clinic and speak to the Refugee Maternity Service Midwife or the GP Liaison Midwife.