He has urged federal member for Farrer Sussan Ley to take action immediately with regard to the town’s plight.

“It’s a big concern at the present time,” Councillor Maytom said.

“We will be meeting with Sussan Ley and the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) and doctors affected by this. The sooner we get this service back and running the better.”

Cr Maytom said council was not advised there was an issue with MLHD being able to provide the service until a public statement was isssued.

“We had no knowledge whatsover,” he said.

“They do tell us it’s short-term but we want to ensure there is no risk whatsoever of losing obstetrics at the hospital.”

Cr Maytom said it would be unfair for the 100 women who gave birth at the town’s hospital each year to be expected to travel.

He said council would investigate whether there were incentives for doctors to come to rural areas.

“There used to be incentives offered but under the new process we are trying to find out if this is still the case,” Cr Maytom said.

“It’s important we drill down on this issue. It’s not acceptable that we don’t have that service in our hospital.”

MLHD announced the Leeton District Hospital’s birthing service would be temporarily relocated due to the unavailability of obstetric medical cover.

Women will be offered birthing services at either Griffith Base Hospital or Wagga Wagga Rural Referral Hospital during the interim period. MLHD revealed it was considering a midwife-led model for birthing services.

Karen Cairney, MLHD’s nursing and midwifery executive director, said planning was under way.

“It takes time to engage with women, their families, other health care professionals and the community to design and develop a safe and suitable model of care that is sustainable into the future,” she said.

“MLHD is committed to working through this process to ensure the best outcome for women and their babies.”

Ms Cairney said a midwife-led model of carer models were used widely across NSW.

“Leeton Hospital midwives will continue to provide prenatal and post-natal care at Leeton hospital for local women.”