New hospital clinic delivers greater choice for mums

DARLING Downs Health has joined with Griffith University to offer an innovative maternity model of care in Toowoomba.

Expectant mother Laura Andrews, and her husband Cameron Andrews, along with (back from left) student midwife Monique Matthews and midwifery lecturer/fully credentialed midwife, Karen McDonald-Smith. Picture: Contributed

DARLING Downs Health has joined with Griffith University to offer an innovative maternity model of care in Toowoomba. 

Health Minister Steven Miles said Toowoomba Hospital was offering student-led antenatal clinics, a first for the regional facility.

"The weekly clinic is held after usual business hours which means more women can bring their partner or support person to the appointment," Mr Miles said.

"Strong partnerships between the hospital and a number of universities including Griffith University are helping give practical experience to the next generation of midwives and give them a taste of what it's like to work in a regional hospital.

"This could inspire them to seek a career outside the metropolitan centres which may help address the shortage of midwives in regional areas in the future."

The clinics are organised by midwifery students and overseen by Griffith University midwifery lecturer and fully credentialed midwife Karen McDonald-Smith.

Ms McDonald-Smith said this approach to midwifery care was a 'win-win' for both pregnant women and the midwifery students.

"Women who receive their antenatal care through this particular model see the same student midwife right through their pregnancy, labour and birth and transition to motherhood," she said.

"Women experience the benefits of continuity of care and develop a trusting relationship with their midwifery student and myself.

"It is also wonderful learning experience for the students who are required to participate in at least 20 experiences of continuity of care as a requirement of their degree."

Currently, the student-led antenatal clinics are open to women who wish to experience midwifery care and continuity of care from the same midwifery student.

For more information contact the Toowoomba Hospital antenatal clinic on 4616 6000.  

Originally published as New hospital clinic delivers greater choice for mums