Midwives across the ACT are being acknowledged for their compassion, commitment, and professionalism this International Day of the Midwife.
Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith said there are 725 registered midwives across the ACT.
“Midwives make an invaluable contribution to our health system, providing care to thousands of expectant and birth parents every year.
“Between 5000 and 6000 babies are born in the ACT each year, with around 30 per cent involving midwifery continuity of care in the public health system – one of the highest proportions in Australia,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
The theme for this year’s International Day of the Midwife is Follow the Data: Invest in Midwives.
“The national and international evidence shows that midwifery-led continuity of care results in great outcomes for newborn babies and their mothers, while reducing costs to health services.
“This year’s theme emphasises how important it is that we invest in quality midwifery to improve maternal and child health care and to achieve the best possible outcomes for mothers and babies.
“Today is also an opportunity to recognise the varied roles and contributions Midwives make in the ACT. We acknowledge the dedicated and hardworking health professionals who work in maternity services across the Territory and provide care and support during one of the most significant times in someone’s life,” said Minister Stephen-Smith.
Midwives work in a variety of settings in the ACT, including:
- Antenatal Clinics and Wards
- Birth Suites
- Postnatal Wards
- ‘Midcall’ post-natal home visits
- Midwifery-led Continuity of Care programs
- Publicly funded homebirth programs
- Private practice
- GP and Obstetrician Clinics
- Leadership and management positions across Canberra Health Services, Calvary Public Hospital Bruce and the ACT Health Directorate
The International Day of the Midwife kicks off a week of celebrations for the Territory’s midwives and nurses, including tomorrow’s (6 May) ACT Nurses and Midwives 2021 Excellence Awards and concluding with International Nurses Day on May 12.
