Three senior specialist doctors have been successfully recruited into our secondary obstetric and gynaecology service at Whakatāne Hospital.

One senior doctor who has been supporting the re-establishment of the services has resigned to return to his home country overseas. We are grateful and sincerely thank him for his professional contribution during this important planning phase.

The process to employ the fourth senior medical officer is well advanced, with final documentation and approvals under way.

Recruitment continues as a priority and our plan remains on track to recommence services March/April. Health NZ is finalising specialist medical rosters and we will be in a position to provide a further update within the next two weeks.

We know how important this service is to the community, and we appreciate everyone’s understanding and support.