EIGHT community representatives have been selected to form the Maternity Services Consumer Committee at Castlemaine Health.
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The committee will help ensure the Castlemaine community has a say on what is important to them when it comes to maternity services at Castlemaine Health.
The hospital's maternity services were paused in May while they underwent a review policies, procedures and processes.
The new consumer committee is being chair by Anna Howard, who said the committee had members from a broad range of backgrounds.
"It's been a fantastic committee to be part of because of the passion and drive among members to contribute," Ms Howard said.
"(It means) if there are members of community that want to convey particular messages about the (the hospital's maternity services), they are able to get in contact with us through a form on Castlemaine Health website.
"It's critical that this committee remain. Most hospitals have a consultative committee. Having an ear close to the ground around what birthing woman want and need is really important factor in making sure services meet the community need."
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Ms Howard said the committee was committed to retaining the existing culture at Castlemaine Health, along with a strong, sustainable model of care.
"I am interested in being a voice and a vehicle through which women and their support people can express what they want from a birthing service," she said.
"Having experienced two very different births in large regional public hospitals I believe it's the approach of the staff and the culture of the service that has the largest impact on a woman's experience of giving birth.
"Feeling respected and listened to is so crucial to having a positive birthing experience."
The review of Castlemaine Health's maternity services was completed in June. A report containing recommendations to ensure the return of services has been endorsed by the board.