The Government is backing a member's bill to extend the time mothers can stay in hospital or birthing units after their babies are born. Photo / 123rf
The Government is backing a member's bill to extend the time mothers can stay in hospital or birthing units after their babies are born. Photo / 123rf
The Government is backing a member’s bill that will allow mothers to stay in hospital or birthing units at least three days after their babies are born.
National MP Catherine Wedd’s Three-Day Postnatal Stay Amendment Bill would now progress through Parliament as part of the Government’s legislative programme, Health MinisterSimeon Brown and Associate Health Minister Casey Costello said.
Supporting “healthy starts” for mothers and babies was at the heart of the bill, “especially for those who may not have the help they need at home”, Brown said.
“We are committed to ensuring women and their babies receive safe, timely, and appropriate care. Adopting this as a Government Bill means planning can begin to ensure the health system is prepared to deliver this improved support for families.”
No one should be made to feel they have to leave hospital or a birthing unit before they are ready, says Associate Health Minister Casey Costello. Photo / File
The Ministry of Health had been told to work with Health New Zealand on preparing for the increase.
Costello would be the minister responsible for the bill.
She described it as a “practical and compassionate step” that put women and their wellbeing at the centre of the health system.
“We recognise that childbirth is different for every woman, but no one should be made to feel they have to leave hospital or a birthing unit before they are ready.
“By guaranteeing every woman up to three days to rest, recover, and bond with their baby, women will have the choice to be where they feel most comfortable.”
The Three-Day Postnatal Stay Amendment Bill was put forward by National MP for Tukituki Catherine Wedd. Photo / Mark Mitchell
Wedd, the MP for Tukituki and a mother-of-four, said she was proud the Government had adopted her Bill.
“Once implemented, the change will make a real and lasting difference for mothers, giving them the time and support they need in those precious early days.”
