Ged Murphy, Acting Chief Executive at East Cheshire NHS Trust, said: “The Board remains committed to the return of intrapartum care to Macclesfield Hospital when safe to do so. In December 2021, care was further suspended until at least April 2022. It is our ambition to return the service within 12 months of that extended suspension date with the support of the integrated care system and partners.
“I recognise this news is very disappointing and do not underestimate the impact this will have on our staff working at host trusts and for families who access our maternity services. I apologise that we are not able to return the service at this point and will continue to provide updates on our progress.
“We have always been clear that returning the service is based on safety which includes the provision of a robust anaesthetic rota. The trust has now received the report from the Royal College of Anaesthetists’ invited review and is considering its recommendations with our partners to determine how this may be achieved. “
Clare Watson, Accountable Officer of NHS Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We continue to work closely with East Cheshire NHS Trust and our partners to support the safe return of intrapartum care to Macclesfield Hospital. While we support the widest choice and best possible provision of services and care for local mothers, ensuring their safety is of paramount importance.”
Intrapartum care continues to be delivered safely with the support of the Trusts partners at Leighton, Stepping Hill and Wythenshawe hospitals; these hospitals are located geographically close to the East Cheshire area we serve, for our patients and staff. Antenatal and postnatal care continues to be provided at Macclesfield Hospital and homebirths and other services from our community settings.
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