The video technology allows experts from NETS (Neo-natal and paediatric emergency transport service) and specialist paediatric and neo-natal sections at John Hunter and Westmead Hospitals to interact with staff in Singleton.

The camera can pan, tilt and zoom in at 36 time’s optical zoom and can be accessed via the Hunter New England Health network’s intranet. 

“It’s real-time so they can see what’s happening on the other side and potentially offer us help or different solutions in emergencies,” midwifery educator Julie-Anne Humphreys said. 

“During the ‘Golden Hour’ this technology could be the difference between life and death.” 

Some of the scenarios highlighted by the medical experts include newborn resuscitation and mothers going into labour early. 

“It will reduce the delay in quality care as staff can be guided by experts who are watching the live feed from any computer connected to the health networks intranet,” Singleton’s acting manager maternal services Nicole Highett said.

“It will offer better outcomes to babies and mothers.”

The hospital already has one of these video links in the emergency department but this is new system will be located in the maternity ward for potential birth complications or to assist with infant resuscitations. 

“Anything that can be done to overcome the tyranny of distance is something we should focus on,” Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation Chairman Michael Slater said. 

Dr Andrew Berry from NETS said that cliché, “A picture tells a thousand words,” is true when it comes to neo-natal care and a phone call description can’t always portray the wellness of a child. 

“If it only got used once a year then it is worth it and it’s reassuring for parents to know that specialist care isn’t far away,” he said. 

Singleton is one of 14 regional hospitals in NSW benefiting from the $330,000 donation.