Doctors are calling for the Premier to intervene following an announcement that Gladstone’s birthing unit has been reopened to women with “no known risks”.

Health professionals have criticised the announcement, saying that a “no risk” category does not exist in obstetrics and that even low risk births can go wrong.

It come as Gladstone’s maternity unit bypass ticks over 279 days.

President of the National Association of Specialist Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Dr Gino Pecoraro, told Bill McDonald it’s beyond the department and its leader to solve this issue.

“As the leader of the state, she has a duty of care and responsibility to the women of central Queensland, and in particular, Gladstone,” he said.

“Surely she should step up to the plate and take an active role.”

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