A new survey has revealed a nationwide midwives shortage crisis as Wellington Hospital backs down on its plan to “bribe” new mothers to leave hospital early. A draft report on the survey obtained by National health spokesman Tony Ryall shows a national shortage of about 200 private and hospital midwives. About 2550 midwives work in New Zealand. 

The survey of health boards’ maternity chiefs and the College of Midwives in July found midwife shortages in most areas, the worst being in Waitemata, Counties Manukau, central Auckland and Wellington. Mr Ryall, who obtained the report under the Official Information Act, said nothing had been done about the problem despite it being known for five years. Capital and Coast District Health Board yesterday backed down on its plan to offer mothers $100 supermarket vouchers to leave hospital within six hours of giving birth. Read more…