Staff shortages are being blamed for why a regional Queensland hospital has been on bypass since July last year.

Some expectant mothers attending Gladstone Hospital have reportedly been redirected to another hospital more than 100 kilometres away.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles admitting it’s been tough recruiting maternity staff.

9News reporter Tim Arvier told Neil Breen the health department hasn’t been quick enough to act on the issue.

“This has been an ongoing controversary for a longtime, we’ve seen what’s happened in Mackay where they have also struggled with staff shortages.”

Press PLAY to hear the full interview