Implementing midwifery units in a European country: Situational analysis of an Italian case study

Batinelli, Laura; McCourt, Christine; Bonciani, Manila; Rocca‐Ihenacho, Lucia

doi:10.1016/j.midw.2022.103534

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

References 29 publications

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“…Our study findings also align with similar studies in HICs [ 27 – 30 ] and the frameworks and standards that have been developed based on those studies [ 31 – 33 ]. For example, the following factors have been identified as important in a range of settings as well as in this study: an enabling policy environment including adequate financial and human resourcing, [ 28 – 33 ] mainstreaming MLBCs as a core element of the service rather than as an ‘optional extra’, [ 27 , 28 , 30 ] strong and inspirational midwifery leadership, [ 27 , 28 , 30 ] education and training programmes that prepare midwives with the competence and confidence to support physiological birth and make decisions independently, [ 28 , 30 ] interdisciplinary and interfacility collaboration built on relationships of trust and respect [ 28 , 30 ]. Supportive leadership helps create a positive work environment for midwives, encouraging their professional development and job satisfaction.…”

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 91%

Midwife-led birthing centres in four countries: a case study

Bazirete,

Hughes,

Lopes

et al. 2023

BMC Health Serv Res

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Background Midwives are essential providers of primary health care and can play a major role in the provision of health care that can save lives and improve sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn and adolescent health outcomes. One way for midwives to deliver care is through midwife-led birth centres (MLBCs). Most of the evidence on MLBCs is from high-income countries but the opportunity for impact of MLBCs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) could be significant as this is where most maternal and newborn deaths occur. The aim of this study is to explore MLBCs in four low-to-middle income countries, specifically to understand what is needed for a successful MLBC. Methods A descriptive case study design was employed in 4 sites in each of four countries: Bangladesh, Pakistan, South Africa and Uganda. We used an Appreciative Inquiry approach, informed by a network of care framework. Key informant interviews were conducted with 77 MLBC clients and 33 health service leaders and senior policymakers. Fifteen focus group discussions were used to collect data from 100 midwives and other MLBC staff. Results Key enablers to a successful MLBC were: (i) having an effective financing model (ii) providing quality midwifery care that is recognised by the community (iii) having interdisciplinary and interfacility collaboration, coordination and functional referral systems, and (iv) ensuring supportive and enabling leadership and governance at all levels. Conclusion The findings of this study have significant implications for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes, strengthening healthcare systems, and promoting the role of midwives in LMICs. Understanding factors for success can contribute to inform policies and decision making as well as design tailored maternal and newborn health programmes that can more effectively support midwives and respond to population needs. At an international level, it can contribute to shape guidelines and strengthen the midwifery profession in different settings.

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