The ‘follow-through’ experience in three-year Bachelor of Midwifery programs in Australia: A survey of students

Abstract

Despite these challenges, there were significant learning opportunities. Future work and research needs to ensure than an integrated approach is taken to enhance learning.

Midwifery students׳ experiences of an innovative clinical placement model embedded within midwifery continuity of care in Australia

“…This study also confirms that CoC experiences promote the development of partnerships with women, prepares students to work in CoC models, and is highly valued by them. These results align closely with previous research (Aune et al, 2011;Gray et al, 2012;Gray et al, 2013;McLachlan et al, 2013). CoC experiences embed midwifery student education in the 'real world' of care for women throughout their continuum of care.…”

“…In fact, most students had completed more than their minimum required continuity of care experiences. Previous studies identified that recruiting women was a major challenge with CoC experiences (Gray et al, 2012;Gray et al, 2013;McLachlan et al, 2013). RPMEP arrangements whereby students are placed within CoC midwifery models resulted in relatively seamless recruitment of women.…”

“…An evaluation study in Australia by Gray et al (2012) found that while current students (n ¼93) and graduates (n ¼8) of a direct entry three-year Bachelor of Midwifery were positive about opportunities to develop relationships with women, some aspects of the follow-through experience were difficult. Students were challenged by the need to recruit women and find time to fully engage with them.…”

“…This major maternity services reform to expand women's access to primary Contents lists available at ScienceDirect journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/midw midwife-led continuity of care (CoC) is underpinned by high quality evidence that shows positive outcomes for mothers and babies (Hatem et al, 2008;Sandall et al, 2013). Midwifery students currently undertake CoC experiences in Australia (Gray et al, 2012;Clements et al, 2013;McLachlan et al, 2013;Sweet & Glover, 2013), Norway (Aune et al, 2011), New Zealand (NZCOM) and the United Kingdom Lewis et al, 2008;Rawnson et al, 2009;Rawnson, 2011). However there is little evidence to guide the quantity and scope of continuity of care experiences undertaken by students.…”

The challenge of employing and managing new graduate midwives in midwifery group practices in hospitals

“…New graduate midwives, those in their first‐year post‐graduation, have not historically worked in continuity of care models despite being prepared to work across the scope of midwifery practice from their degrees (Gray et al . , Cummins et al . ).…”