Which hospital?

[RaN88]

I have two hospitals thirty minutes either side of me in different towns. None are particularly less convenient than the other so I'm wondering what other factors I should take into consideration. Is there such a thing as hospital ratings for maternity care?! I'm thinking Colchester General and Broomfield in Chelmsford. Has anyone had their care at either of these? The only thing tempting me at the moment is that Broomfield can get me in at 12 weeks for a dating scan, Colchester is 13 weeks. Not something to judge by I know ;) I'm currently 8+2.

Congrats! There certainly are independent reviews online for hospitals and certain services like maternity which patients input. I know that Colchester has or used to have dreadfully long waits in A&E and it was very hectic and understaffed (medical colleagues that worked there). Not an indication of their maternity services though. From memory, Broomfield is a much larger hospital, and possibly has more weekend/night cover and more in-hospital options like nurse led ward if preferred. Don't know personally though.

I'd look at their level of special care. Off the top of my head they both have a level 2 special care, but I'd also want to know how many actual cots they have at that level if needed? Assuming the above is equal, I'd look at parking availability and charges.

Hopefully, someone that has 1st hand experience can help you though x

I’m due to give birth at Broomfield, not first hand experience of labour yet but I’m high risk so frequently there for appointments at the moment. The staff are lovely, even at the moment I’ve not noticed any change in care since the start of the corona outbreak though some appointments have been telephone only. The birthing unit and labour ward have been recently refurbed and look like they have all the facilities you may want or need.