The Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) welcomes the release of the Second Edition National Consensus Framework for Rural Maternity Services, which reaffirms the critical role of Rural Generalists in delivering safe, high-quality maternity care across rural, remote, and First Nations communities.
ACRRM is one of 11 signatories to the Framework, which reflects evolving models of care and emphasises the importance of culturally responsive services delivered close to home.
ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says Rural Generalists are uniquely trained to provide comprehensive maternity care, including antenatal and postnatal services, planned deliveries, and emergency obstetrics.
“Rural Generalists are vital members and leaders of multidisciplinary rural maternity teams, working alongside midwives and other health professionals to ensure women can receive care within their communities,” Dr Martin says.
“This not only improves outcomes but reduces the emotional and financial strain of travelling long distances for birthing and pre and antenatal care.”
Dr Martin says the ongoing closure and downgrading of rural maternity services – seen recently in Tasmania, Far North Queensland, and New South Wales – is deeply concerning.
“Every closure reduces access to affordable, timely care and puts the safety of mothers and babies at risk. “Action shouldn't require tragedy.”
He says properly supported, integrated models that include Rural Generalists with advanced obstetrics, anaesthetics, and paediatrics skills, can sustainably deliver care to the highest standards.
“ACRRM not only trains and supports Rural Generalist obstetricians, but also Rural Generalist anaesthetists and paediatricians - each an essential part of the clinical team needed to safely care for women, their babies, and the communities in which they live.
“The Framework offers a roadmap for evidence-based, cost-effective locally led maternity care and call for genuine investment and infrastructure to bring it to life.
“I commend all those who contributed to the development of this Second Edition National Consensus Framework for Rural Maternity Services, including former National Rural Health Commissioner and past ACRRM President, Associate Professor Ruth Stewart, who chaired the expert advisory group overseeing this important review.
“ACRRM looks forward to working with the review stakeholders and governments to ensure the Framework leads to real, lasting improvements for rural, remote and First Nations families.”
View the Second Edition National Consensus Framework for Rural Maternity Services here.