New Midwifery Care Model a First in Brisbane

Health Minister Cameron Dick has launched a new model of maternity care to provide women with continuity throughout their entire pregnancy, by providing the option of a personal midwife at Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH).

“As Health Minister I am pleased to support this model of care which provides more options for mums-to-be on Brisbane’s northside,” Mr Dick said.

“Women who are booked to give birth at RBWH now have the option of being admitted as a private patient to be cared for by their chosen midwife for labour and birth, as well as their antenatal and postnatal care.

“This innovative model of maternity care is woman-focused and consumer-driven, and provides high levels of satisfaction for birthing women.”

RBWH currently has several eligible midwives (EPPMs) accredited with full visiting access.

Acting Executive Director for Women’s and Newborn Services Tami Photinos said he RBWH supported the EPPM’s should they need to consult or refer during the pregnancy, and provide back-up when the women present is in labour.

“Women can also access specialist appointments from RBWH as required,” Ms Photinos said.

Ms Photinos said RBWH has a thorough credentialing process for EPPM’s, and Consultation and Referral Guidelines to ensure any complications that arise during the pregnancy are referred to RBWH for specialist treatment.

“At all stages of a woman’s journey, we provide support and care in the event that medical conditions arise. We have high expectations of co-operation with our EPPM’s from the entire multi-disciplinary team, with a strong focus on woman-centred care,” she said.

The first phase of the model of care was implemented at RBWH in 2013, and in November 2014, the model expanded to include labour and birth care by the private midwife as a private patient.

Helen Saggers was the first woman to give birth at RBWH under the new private midwife arrangements. She said working with her chosen midwife, Michelle from My Midwives, throughout the preparation for birth, delivery and post-natal care felt very natural.

“I feel those six months leading up to the birth were absolutely crucial, Michelle got to know my partner Doug and I; our strengths, weaknesses, dreams, fears and most importantly we created a birth plan together to achieve the best possible outcome,” she said.

Helen Saggers was the first woman to give birth at RBWH under the new private midwife arrangements and will be speaking on the day.

Media contact:        Suellen Hinde 3035 6117