There for the whole journey

ST JOHN of God Berwick Hospital has been caring for the local community and delivering local babies for 75 years.
During this time, they have cared for thousands of families and have partnered in their journeys, every step of the way.
Joyce Coyle, Midwifery Manager, emphasises that the care for mothers and babies doesn’t just cover the days in hospital, but that they are there from the moment you discover your pregnancy and beyond discharge with your precious new baby.
This journey often starts with a tour of their unit or an information session. The information sessions run the first Sunday of each month from 2pm.
An obstetrician hosts the event with a midwife and physiotherapist also presenting. Bookings can be made on 9709 1400.
Tours of their maternity unit, and a chat with their midwives, are available every Sunday at 1.30pm and every Tuesday at 8pm. These do not require a booking.
Booking into the hospital can be done at your convenience, whether it is a face to face meeting with a midwife or an over the phone consultation.
During your pregnancy their 24-hour hotline is available on 9709 1400 and no question, at any time, is too small.
Also, during your pregnancy they have a pregnancy assessment service which is available for anything related to your pregnancy health.
You might require a blood pressure check, your doctor may request a check of your baby’s heartbeat or you can book an appointment to chat with a midwife.
Whatever the problem, large or small, they are there with you on your journey to motherhood.
Joyce is very keen to ensure all mothers have their needs attended to.
A recent addition is afternoon teas including cheese platters and gourmet mini cakes.
“Happy Hour” was introduced following feedback to Joyce from ex-patients who were keen for the foods that were denied in pregnancy!
They have four lactation consultants on-site for assistance with any breast feeding issues during your stay. Their breastfeeding clinic is available to you after you go home. Book an appointment at their clinic to have more breastfeeding guidance.
Fathers are welcome to stay at no extra cost. Meals can be provided for a small cost. It is important that Dad is involved in baby care and settling.
A level two nursery is staffed by expert midwives and can take babies from 34 weeks, or 1500gms or those needing a little extra care even though they are full-term.
Early discharge, for those who would like it, is available with a home visiting service within 30 kilometres of the hospital. A special bonus package has been put together including a restaurant lunch, gold class movie tickets, massage and much more.
Their hotline is also there for mums after discharge and, again, no question is too small at any time of the day.
Breastfeeding clinics for any mums still requiring some support with breastfeeding are held two or three days each week and a lactation consultant is with you for this session (by appointment).
Their Raphael Centre is there for any mums/families and those of the Casey and Cardinia community if there are any post-natal depression issues.
A GP or obstetrician can assist mums in obtaining a referral for this clinic.
This is the St John of God Berwick Hospital Outreach service which is run for the community at a minimal cost to the families.
For further information please call 9709 1400 or visit www.sjog.org.au