A cover crisis in the maternity ward at Dr Grays Hospital could be averted within days following frantic efforts to fill vacant posts.
Fears have been raised that staff shortages could lead to the Elgin unit being downgraded, meaning most pregnant women would have to endure journeys to Inverness or Aberdeen to give birth.
But yesterday it emerged that NHS chiefs were “more optimistic” about the future of the service than they were only a week ago.
Maternity cover crisis could stretch Moray paramedics to breaking point
Moray MSP Richard Lochhead said there appeared now to be some “light at the end of the tunnel”, but warned that the situation remains a precarious one.
A fortnight ago, it was revealed that drastic measures would have to be taken if the Elgin hospital was unable to attract two new doctors by the end of the month.
Moray’s paramedic crews have since highlighted the extra burden that transporting expectant mums on 60-mile trips to give birth would have on “already overstretched” crews.
Yesterday, with time running out, Mr Lochhead offered concerned locals a glimmer of hope after taking part in a conference involving senior NHS Grampian officials.
He said: “Things are looking more optimistic, there is an increasing confidence that Dr Gray’s will maintain a consultant-led maternity ward able to oversee as many births as it does now.
“We are not out of the woods yet, with matters of staff recruitment things can always change on a daily basis.
“We still face an anxious few days awaiting confirmation that the existing service will be maintained.”
Mums-to-be could face 60-mile trip to give birth due to staff shortages
An NHS Grampian spokeswoman said the health board had a “short-term solution” in mind which could take effect next month.
She said: “We are continuing to work very hard to sustain maternity, paediatric and gynaecology services at Dr Gray’s Hospital.
“Staff across Grampian have been working together to seek safe and sustainable solutions, with the goal of continuing to deliver current services. “This work is ongoing and will not be concluded for several days.
“We appreciate that short term uncertainty is unsettling and creates anxiety for everyone.
“Therefore, whilst working on the short term position from August, we are committed to working with patients, staff, the general public and colleagues in partner organisations to look at the best medium and long term model for services.”
