Perinatal Collaborative Transport Study (Cots) by Scottish Neonatal Transport Service

Released on 28/07/2008

A new report from NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS) Scotland has examined whether a national service to co-ordinate the transfer of pregnant women who are in labour or close to giving birth should be established.  

The call to examine the feasibility of a national service forms part of a report into the number, circumstances and process used to transfer women from one maternity unit to another, known as an in-utero transfer (IUTs). 

Quote:  

Mary Newburn, Head of Policy, NCT, said; “It is vital to have reliable evidence on the practice and performance of the maternity services to inform planning for quality improvement.  The new CoTs report on in-utero transfers of mothers and babies in Scotland provides highly relevant information that should be acted on.  

It is important and reassuring to note that in almost all of the transfers to obstetric units from community maternity units decision making and transfer arrangements were appropriate and uncomplicated. As these kind of transfers account for three quarters of all un-utero transfers, they are an important group. 

We were however concerned to hear that almost 21 percent (34/165) of all pregnant women who were transferred between obstetric units or tertiary level units, who needed access to a tertiary level unit, could not be admitted to their nearest tertiary unit, and that this was most frequently due to inadequate staffing levels. Having a baby in intensive care is always a traumatic experience for parents, made all the more challenging if they are in a unit that have not visited before the birth and are far from home.  

The NCT believes that clear national guidance needs to developed and implemented on the way that women are transported when in labour. Women should not be adversely impacted if a transfer is required.  

We would like the reasons for women to be transported in private vehicles to be clearly set out and procedures to ensure women receive the best standard of care, are not left alone, and are accompanied by a health professional they know and trusts – preferably the midwife that has cared for them throughout their pregnancy – is with them during the whole transfer period.” 

ENDS

 For further press information contact the NCT press office on 020 8752 2404 (out of hours 07722 839 428) or email: press@nct.org.uk 

Notes to Editors The NCT is the UK’s leading charity on pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. Every year the charity supports thousands of parents through an incredible life-changing experience, offering relevant information and mutual support through our network of over 300 local branches, UK wide helplines, antenatal and early days courses, breastfeeding counselling and peer support schemes. 

Operating for over 50 years, the NCT is recognised as the voice of pregnant women and new parents throughout the UK. The charity works continuously for improvements to maternity care and better services and facilities for new parents. We are viewed by many as independent experts in matters relating to pregnancy, birth and early parenthood and are an influential and trusted advisor to UK governments, royal colleges, private sector bodies and other charities. For further information call NCT Enquiries on 0300 330 0770 or visit www.nct.org.uk

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