This follows Calvary’s announcement in February, in partnership with the State Government, to accommodate increased demand for maternity services at the hospital.

Calvary Health Care Regional Chief Executive Officer, Tasmania, Melissa Evans said Calvary Lenah Valley Hospital’s plans to accommodate an extra 600 deliveries annually were underway.

“The goal is to complete the transition by August 20, enabling a smooth process to being the only private maternity provider in Tasmania by 28 August,” Ms Evans said.

“We’ve addressed key areas of infrastructure improvements, equipment enhancements as well as securing additional medical and nursing staff and I am delighted that we are on schedule.

“Two obstetricians will start as Visting Medical Officers (VMOs) from 10 June, along with some midwives from other sites, who are joining the Calvary Lenah Valley Hospital maternity team.”

Among the infrastructure improvements is the refurbishment of an existing delivery suite to meet the extra demand, along with other physical modifications to the reconfigured maternity ward including a Special Care Nursery. Orders have been placed for additional birthing beds, monitors and other critical infrastructure.

“Calvary has been delivering compassionate and high-quality care to expectant mothers in Hobart for 80 years and currently delivers approximately 350 babies annually.” Ms Evans said.

“We want to reassure all Hobart residents that Calvary Lenah Valley Hospital will be ready for the anticipated increase in deliveries across the next few months.”

Calvary Lenah Valley Hospital General Manager, Michael Mitchell, welcomed the new VMOs and the midwives.

“Some of them have worked with us previously and we offer a warm welcome to both those returning and the new members of our team,” Mr Mitchell said.

“Our senior staff have collaborated on the details to make sure every expectant mum seeking private obstetric care from the end of August in Hobart has the support and services they need.”

Calvary Health Care is working closely with the Tasmanian State Government and with private health insurers, including Bupa, to ensure all services for expectant mothers are both safe and sustainable.