A multidisciplinary group model of maternity care: a feasibility study

Abstract

Antenatal care traditionally involves a schedule of one-to-one visits with a care provider, however an emerging way of providing antenatal care involves the use of a group model, which already shows promise in optimising birth outcomes such as preterm birth and low birth weight. Current maternity models such as shared-care or midwife-led care attempt to provide a women-centred philosophy, incorporating continuity of care. Despite best efforts there are shortcomings in antenatal service delivery, including a lack of timely information and professional and emotional support. The evidence largely indicates that women feel unprepared for the psychological, social, and physical challenges, creating risk for mental health problems during a time of unparalleled change. Acquisition of knowledge is important in influencing maternal behaviour and birth outcomes. While the etiology of birth outcomes is complex, psychosocial factors including stress, anxiety, depression, and social support are critical factors that can increase the risk of medical complications and further increases the risk of children having a wide range of adverse outcomes. While antenatal care has traditionally involved a schedule of one-to-one visits, group models of care are emerging as a way of delivering clinical health services to pregnant women, integrating the usual pregnancy health assessment with tailored group education and peer support, thus incorporating broader psychosocial aspects. In promoting health and wellbeing during a time where reconfiguration of service delivery is required. The primary purpose of the current research is to examine a group model of multidisciplinary care. It is hypothesized that a group model comprising care and education provided in-part via telehealth digital technologies for pregnant women that extends into the postpartum period, will provide greater access to care and education, improving perinatal physical and psychosocial health outcomes for mother and infant, in comparison to women receiving standard maternity care.