Maternity Services Rated Inadequate

Introduction to the Issue

A trust’s maternity services have again been rated inadequate following unannounced inspections. The health watchdog carried out inspections at two hospitals in June and July last year. It found minimal improvements had been made and services continued to breach rules on staffing and safe care and treatment.

Response from the Trust

The trust that runs both hospitals said it was regrettable that their service has fallen short and that they are now making improvements. The chief executive stated that since the inspection, they have strengthened staffing levels and senior clinical supervision, expanded staff development, and expanded wellbeing support.

Findings of the Inspections

The follow-up inspections were carried out by the health watchdog last summer to check on improvements that were asked to be made. Further follow-up inspections were carried out in September last year, but overall obstetric care in both hospitals was again rated as inadequate. The deputy director for hospitals expressed deep concern that improvements in maternity services were too slow, with little change since the last inspection.

Specific Concerns

Specific concerns included a triage service that is often understaffed, with around a quarter of calls going unanswered or being abandoned by the caller due to wait times. Delays in planned caesarean sections and induction of labour were also experienced by women. Frequent diversions to other hospitals due to staffing shortages caused distress for women who had made specific plans at their chosen hospital.

Outdated Policies and Guidelines

Inspectors found many outdated policies and clinical guidelines in both hospitals, including those on child abduction and sepsis management. The trust has acknowledged these issues and is working to address them.

Actions Taken by the Trust

Since the inspection, the trust has opened new maternity facilities and introduced a dedicated telephone triage midwife, a new telephone triage service, and a private triage area to improve access, privacy, and dignity. The trust is committed to making further improvements to ensure that their maternity services meet the required standards.