The Finocchiaro CLP Government welcomes the announcement of Healthscope to extend maternity services at Darwin Private Hospital to 6 June 2025.
Minister for Health Steve Edgington said 45 out of 114 expectant families affected by the original closure date on 17 April 2025 will be able to have their birth at Darwin Private Hospital.
"While this is good news, we want to reassure the expectant families remaining that safe, supportive and positive care will be provided throughout the transition to Royal Darwin Hospital.
"We are focused on finding solutions to make sure we offer support and continuity of care to those expectant families at one of the most important times of their life."
NT Health's dedicated clinicians and midwives at the Maternity Services Unit will work with expectant families to transition their care to the Royal Darwin Hospital.
"We understand the importance of having a range of pregnancy, birthing and postnatal care options available to Territorians," said Mr Edgington.
NT Health is working in partnership with major private insurance providers to develop alternative private maternity models and experiences to complement the current public services at Royal Darwin Hospital.
Once fully operational, these options plan to utilise privately practising midwives and will be funded by private health insurers.
The two private options include:
A luxury post-natal maternity retreat: New parents will be able to stay at one of Darwin's boutique hotels with their family. The retreat includes 24/7 maternity support and the option to stay with their partner for a number of days at the resort with access to restaurants, room-service, deluxe king bed, ensuite and resort recreational facilities.Returning home sooner package: New parents will be able to return home with 24/7 maternity support. Additional services include cleaning, meal preparation and wellness programs and a new mum and bub pack.
"We are doing everything we can to ensure women with private health cover can choose their birthing experience," said Mr Edgington.
"We are also working on the finer details of the two private options with more information available in the coming weeks."
NT Health is working with Darwin Private Hospital staff affected by the closure to provide fast-track employment options.
Discussions with Darwin-based private obstetricians are also underway with the option of providing private care to mothers birthing at Royal Darwin Hospital.
A Transition Nurse Unit Manager has been appointed by NT Health to support families and answer any questions they may have.
Mr Edgington said the decision of Healthscope to close private maternity and birthing services was a trend occurring at private hospitals across Australia.
In the past eight years, about 12 private hospitals have stopped providing maternity services, including in Cairns, Bunbury and Hobart.
Each year, more than 2,150 babies are delivered at Royal Darwin Hospital.
Families impacted by Healthscope's decision can call 0474 217 962 or email [[email protected]]
