Delivering continuity of midwifery care to Queensland women

Robust consumer representation is helpful to encourage practitioners to work collaboratively
when delivering the choices and needs of women and families.
12. Sustaining and evaluating
Midwifery models show high rates of staff satisfaction and retention when operated
sustainably. Strong communication culture and processes, supportive and flexible
management and good understanding of the midwifery model and women’s needs all
contribute to sustainability.
13. Eligible midwives
Eligible midwives have been notated by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, after
demonstrating their experience and competence across the scope of practice. They are able
to provide Medicare rebatable services, subject to certain conditions including ‘collaborative
arrangements’ with a medical practitioner. State and Territory governments have committed,
in the National Maternity Services Plan, to developing credentialing processes and enabling
eligible midwives to access and collaborate with public maternity facilities.
Over time, eligible midwives are likely to make a significant contribution to deliver to women
a continuity of community-based primary maternity care and reducing the burden on public
facilities.
A guide to implementation
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