The Women and Infants Unit at Orange Health Service has been recognized with the Inspiring Team Award at the Western NSW Local Health District Awards for its innovative project aimed at enhancing maternal and infant health outcomes. This initiative focuses on reducing the number of infants requiring special care, a goal that resonates deeply with the unit’s dedicated staff.
Unit manager Danielle Syme emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, noting that it involved not just maternity staff but also doctors, obstetrics team members, and clinical midwife consultants. “Without their stamp of approval in creating the framework, we wouldn’t have been able to do it,” Ms. Syme stated. The success of this initiative has been particularly gratifying, as it has led to improved health outcomes for both mothers and babies.
Over the past year, the unit implemented changes to its booking calendar, specifically for scheduled cesarean sections and inductions of labor. The project promotes supporting mothers in reaching the 39-week gestation mark, a critical timeframe that research indicates optimizes health outcomes for newborns. According to Ms. Syme, data collected over this period reveals significant improvements in infant health at Orange Hospital.
“We’ve had over 12 months of data, and it showed all of the things that we did with the framework … that’s led to all of these really great outcomes for mums and babies,” Ms. Syme explained. Research consistently indicates that every week matters in gestation. Delaying birth until the 39-week mark—when there are no health risks—greatly reduces the likelihood of infants requiring special care for various complications.
The Women and Infants Unit accommodates two to three births each day, placing immense demands on its staff. Despite the busy environment, the team has worked collaboratively to develop a structured approach that enhances both maternal and infant health. Ms. Syme reflected on the recognition the unit received, describing the award as both surprising and humbling. “We were absolutely shocked; it’s really nice to be recognized,” she said.
The project underscores a commitment to improving health services for mothers and their babies, reinforcing the belief that early intervention and support can lead to healthier outcomes. The efforts of the Orange Health Service team demonstrate the impact of collaborative healthcare initiatives in fostering a supportive environment for families during a pivotal time in their lives.
