Autonomous private midwifery practice: a retrospective 1994-2000

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of an independent midwifery practice conducted in metropolitan Adelaide for the years 1994-2000. The solo caseload practice provides prenatal, intrapartum and postnatal services for approximately 24-30 families per year utilizing the 'relational emancipatory model of midwifery care' developed by the author. A distinguishing feature of this model is continuity of midwife carer throughout the childbearing continuum. Outcomes for 117 women and babies are presented. The relationship of isolation to private midwifery practice in Australia is considered, further developing the themes of personal, professional, structural and cultural challenges to autonomous practice.