Mater Private Hospital Redland to provide care for mums-to-be stuck in insurance limbo with new maternity package

The package is the first of its kind to be offered at a Mater hospital in Queensland.

It includes care throughout pregnancy, during birth and post-natal for new parents and their babies.

Mater Private Hospital Redland executive officer Carlie Nielsen said it would help mums who fell pregnant before the end of the standard 12 month wait period for private maternity cover.

"We realised there was a big demand for private maternity care from local women who, for one reason or another, were not covered by private insurance," Ms Nielsen said.

"The package has really caught on in the Redlands and the feedback from mums and dads has been fantastic.

"We love being able to support families through their most special times."

Redland Bay resident Prudence Look is one of 33 women who have used the package already.

"I had updated my private insurance, but I got pregnant just before the end of the waiting period," Ms Look said.

"My obstetrician told me about the package at Mater and it sounded perfect for me.

"Because I'm 40, I really wanted to have the option of choosing to have a c-section myself.

"And I'm so glad I did, because I did have a difficult labour and I was able to have a caesarean as soon as it became necessary."

The package covers routine antenatal visits, care for labour and birth, an anasthetist and paediatrician when needed.

It also includes two nights in a private room and follow-up care with an obstetrician and paediatrician.

Ms Look's son Thomas was born on July 17 and she said the care she received was invaluable.

"It's been a little crazy becoming a mum, but it's been a great experience thanks to the team at Mater," Ms Look said.

"The midwives have been amazing. If you need help at any time of the day or night they are there for you and your baby."

Those who want more information on the self-funded maternity package can call Mater Mothers' Redland on 3163 7444.