Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 14 February 2024
321. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Health if the protocol for treatment of patients following a miscarriage can be reviewed in order to facilitate privacy or separate areas for scans or check-ups, as being treated in a room alongside pregnant people can be incredibly distressing to those who have experienced miscarriage. [6993/24]
View answerSignificant progress has been made in implementing the National Standards for Bereavement Care following Pregnancy Loss and Perinatal Death since their publication in 2016. Specialist Bereavement Teams have been established in all 19 maternity hospitals/units, each with a Clinical Midwife Specialist in Bereavement. Changes have been made across maternity hospitals and units to ensure quiet and dignified spaces are available for women and families in distressing circumstances. In line with the Standards, this provides for compassionate care in an appropriate setting for families experiencing pregnancy loss.
As protocols in hospitals to treat women experiencing stillbirth or miscarriage are a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond to the Deputy directly on this matter, as soon as possible.
