Canberra Hospital Launches Midwifery Trial to Streamline Maternity Care

A new trial launched at the Canberra Hospital aims to enhance continuity of care for pregnant patients by expanding the clinical scope of endorsed midwives. Announced on Wednesday by ACT Health Minister Marisa Paterson and Director of Midwifery Hana Sayers, the initiative allows participating midwives to prescribe select medications and order diagnostic tests previously restricted to doctors and obstetricians.

Expanding Midwife Capabilities in the ACT

The trial addresses a common challenge for pregnant women: navigating numerous appointments alongside daily family and personal responsibilities. Six endorsed midwives—registered midwives who have undertaken additional training and met Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia regulatory standards—are taking part in the initiative. Participating staff members include Rachel Hetenyi, Monica Scott, Janette Jakab, and Bernadette Miller.

Throughout the trial, these midwives will deliver care across several departments at both Canberra Hospital and North Canberra Hospital. Their roles will span antenatal and postnatal care, birth suites, maternity assessment units, and continuity of midwifery care services.

Improving Patient Convenience and Care Efficiency

According to Health Minister Marisa Paterson, the trial seeks to simplify maternity services by reducing the need for patients to see a separate medical practitioner solely for prescriptions or test requisitions. Rachel Hetenyi, Maternity Clinical Care Coordinator at the Centenary Hospital for Women and Children, noted that the change could streamline treatment for conditions like early pregnancy nausea, standard pathology, ultrasound referrals, or pain relief during early labor.

The trial builds on prior investments by Canberra Health Services aimed at lowering premature birth rates through improved access to midwives and prenatal care. Health officials hope the trial will lead to a permanent program that enhances care continuity across the ACT healthcare system.