The RCOG launches its Election Manifesto today. Titled ‘Delivering Excellence – Our Vision for the Future’ it outlines the RCOG’s views on the commitment, infrastructure and resources needed in maternity and gynaecological services.
Women’s healthcare in the NHS must be improved in six key areas:
- Women’s health – putting the patient first
The RCOG calls on the next Government to develop effective national public health campaigns to improve women’s health and wellbeing. - Maternity services – always a priority
The next Government must commit enough resources into maternity services and provide a consultant-led service in hospitals. - Gynaecological services – attention is needed in the provision of prompt care
The next Government must address inconsistencies in clinical services and provide women with rapid access to emergency gynaecology. - The European Working Time Regulation (EWTR) – time for a rethink
The RCOG insists that the next Government works closely with the royal colleges to develop EWTR solutions. - The Choice agenda
The next Government must engage with professional bodies to identify information requirements based on clinical need and best practice. - Fertility treatment
The RCOG calls on the next Government to end the postcode lottery in fertility treatment.
Additionally, specific issues facing the specialty have been highlighted and the RCOG urges the next Government to pay heed to its concerns in the following areas:
- Research & development
The next Government must insist that universities maintain their research centres and academic posts. In the provision of information about NHS services, the RCOG calls for better data collection and presentation of NHS maternity statistics. - The provision of a safe and effective workforce
The RCOG calls on the next Government to support the constant development of doctors as set out in the NHS Constitution so that their knowledge and skills remain relevant. - International development
Investment in international development programmes must continue despite the current recession.
Professor Sir Sabaratnam Arulkumaran, RCOG President said “The depressed global financial climate has meant that the public sector needs to ensure that funds are allocated prudently and value-for-money is achieved.
“Today, we publish our manifesto and urge all politicians to pay heed to our recommendations. This isn’t merely a ‘wish-list’ of what we need to function adequately in the NHS but a practical guide on where emphasis should be placed to improve women’s healthcare.
“We look forward to working with the next Government.”
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For more information about the manifesto, call 020 7772 6446. To view the full version of ‘Delivering Excellence – Our Vision for the Future', please click here.
