The Stevenson Memorial Hospital Birthing Unit Community Advisory Committee (CAC) met for the third time on Fri., Jan. 12 in preparation for a meeting with Ministry of Health.

In a review of the obstacles to the reopening of the birthing unit at Stevenson Memorial Hospital, the two primary issues were the need for two obstetricians and short-term financial assistance.

It should be noted that both the committee and the board agreed that lack of coverage by obstetrical staff, to avoid risk, is the issue that keeps the unit closed, not quality of care.

The recommendation of the CAC to the SMH board of directors is to direct the Physician Recruitment Committee to start an immediate search for two Obstetricians.

Regardless of the outcome of the meeting with MOH, it is the CAC members' belief that this requirement is on the critical path to success.

However, short-term funding is required until SMH has reached a capacity threshold of approximately 500 births per year.

When this 'target' is reached, SMH should be deemed fiscally sound by the ministry and its financial support would no longer be needed.

With a current estimated number of births at approximately 854 in the SMH catchment area, the CAC feels this threshold is easily attainable, given proper marketing and full support of the hospital. The key to success will be community repatriation to the local birthing unit. The key to repatriation will be community trust and confidence in the SMH system. These two items are also critical to success.

A number of other issues require attention but do not stand in the way of reopening the birthing unit in the short term. The CAC looks forward to working toward a high-quality, sustainable birthing unit with the cooperation and support of the hospital board.

The CAC would like the community at large to know that it meets at 6:30 p.m. every Wednesday at the Nottawassaga Inn. All residents and business owners are welcome and encouraged to attend.

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