Issue - meetings

To receive an update on the Maternity Transformation Plan.

The Chairman introduced the item noting that the previous chair and vice-chair had been contacted by CCG officers who asked to bring an update on the maternity transformation plan and the proposals reached after the investigative work is undertaken. They would be seeking the committee’s endorsement of their proposal, which meant a formal meeting would be required. Unfortunately, the information would not be available until after the next scheduled Committee meeting although an option would be to hold a rapid scrutiny meeting.

The Chair handed over to  Sarah Merritt and Emma Mooney, who gave an update on the maternity transformation plan.

The transformation plan was a national ambition across maternity units to improve customer experience and to make the units more efficient. The offer would include; continuity of care; improved personalised care and choice with parity of access; creation of clinical hubs to provide care closer to home and to deliver seamless pathways across organisation and geographical boundaries.

It had been identified that births at freestanding units had dropped over time and more work was needed on the allocation of staff.

Currently assurance was being sought by NHS England and it was hopeful that assurance would be given. The next stage would be a formal public consultation which would start on the 27 September and finish on the 19 December 2018.

The Chair suggested holding a rapid scrutiny meeting jointly with Bath and Swindon and any other CCG areas, which was welcomed.

Resolved

To hold a Rapid Scrutiny on 27 / 28 September (or close to date). Joint with Bath and Swindon and any other CCG areas.

Volunteers: Gordon King and Chuck Berry