Dr. Joanne Fenton:

With regard to head 4, the number of psychiatrists being attached to the maternity hospital, it is restrictive and must be re-examined. There are only three of us attached to maternity hospitals.

The role of the GP is key. The GP will often know the patient best and be able to do initial non-directive counselling and refer on as needed. There was a question if women will be prejudged. Our role as psychiatrists is not to prejudge individuals presenting for assessments, our role is to act as treating psychiatrists and give care and compassion and not prejudge any woman. I do not think that is going to happen.

Have pregnant women been signed into hospitals for suicidal ideation? Absolutely. There are people who are psychotic and who need treatment for their mental illness. If they are treated for their mental illness, that will avoid the question of termination or the need they felt at the time.

I have seen people with an increase in substance use and suicidal ideation. Substance abuse is all around, particularly in the inner city, and in the suburbs. We must treat the individual on her substance abuse and suicidal ideation.