Maternity services expand with two new specialists

PRIVATE maternity services in Bendigo have expanded this month, with two specialist obstetricians commencing practice at St John of God Bendigo Hospital.

Dr Emily Kelly and Dr Carrie Paulsen began consulting and providing intrapartum care at the hospital on Monday. Both specialists will practice through Vine Obstetrics & Gynaecology and consult from the hospital’s Bendigo suites.

Dr Kelly is a Bendigo-based specialist obstetrician and gynaecologist with experience working in regional and remote settings.

She has advanced training in diagnostic ultrasound and is known for her calm, patient-centred approach, and her commitment to helping women feel informed, safe and empowered throughout pregnancy and birth.

Dr Paulsen brings international and Australian experience to her practice. Originally qualifying in Obstetrics and Gynaecology in South Africa, she is now recognised as a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in Australia.

Her approach emphasises evidence-based care and continuity for women and families across pregnancy, birth and postnatal care.

Hospital chief executive Michael Hogan said the appointments represented an important development for maternity care in the region.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr Kelly and Dr Paulsen to St John of God Bendigo Hospital,” he said. “Their commencement strengthens our private obstetric service and expands choice for families to access high-quality maternity care closer to home.

“Importantly, this helps build sustainable maternity capacity for Bendigo and surrounding communities across northern and central Victoria, supporting choice, continuity of care and timely access for expectant parents.”

Director of business development, Anna Hill, said the additional obstetricians would help meet increasing demand for maternity services across northern and central Victoria.

“Expanding our obstetric medical workforce means more appointment availability, greater flexibility for GP referrals, and increased capacity to support families throughout pregnancy, birth and postnatal care,” she said.

“For northern and central Victoria, it means more women can plan their pregnancy and birth locally, supported by their chosen obstetrician and our experienced maternity team.”

Referrals are now being accepted via [email protected] or on 0476 767 152.