Schwerin (dpa/mv) – Too few births, closing birth stations, long distances: A commission of experts is now to develop a viable concept for obstetric and pediatric care in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The “Commission for the further development of health care in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania” was set up on Thursday, as Health Minister Stefanie Drese (SPD) announced.
The experts therefore decided on two first priority tasks: the care of expectant mothers, their babies and children, and general preventive health care. Representatives on the commission include the Association of Statutory Health Insurance Physicians, the state hospital association, patient representatives, municipalities, scientists and the Ministry of Health.
In the past, the closure of obstetrics and children’s wards has led to considerable resentment among the population in the north-east. With relatively low case numbers, both areas are not considered economical for the clinics. Most recently, obstetrics at the hospital in Crivitz (Ludwigslust-Parchim district) closed, accompanied by protests.
