Primary Health Care

Midwifery

Midwifery is being introduced gradually into Nova Scotia using model sites in three district health authorities. These sites represent urban, rural/remote and regional populations. The model sites will be located in District Health Authorities who have expressed an interest in leading the way toward implementation of midwifery and include:

• The South Shore District Health Authority
• The Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority
• The IWK Health Centre

The midwives working in the model sites will be employed by the District Health Authorities and will work at their full scope of practice as part of a primary maternity care team.

Other District Health Authorities are encouraged to act as 'shadow sites' and be involved in the process of integration as an observer. This will allow the shadow sites to easier integrate midwifery into their District Health Authorities when they feel they are properly prepared.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can a midwife do?

The midwife's scope of practice includes assessment and identification of risks or abnormal conditions, recommending or initiating treatment, and consulting with or referring care to medical specialists and other care providers in a timely and appropriate manner. In Nova Scotia, the registration process and requirements are consistent with those in other Canadian provinces.

How are midwives educated?

Midwifery education in Canada is a four-year baccalaureate (Health Sciences) program, currently offered at six universities across Canada.

More information about midwifery education and curriculum is available through these links:

• Laurentian University - www.laurentian.ca
• McMaster University - www.fhs.mcmaster.ca/midwifery
• Ryerson University - www.ryerson.ca/~midwife/
• Université du Québec à Trois Rivières - www.uqtr.ca
• University of British Columbia - www.midwifery.ubc.ca
• University College of the North - www.keewatincc.mb.ca/  

All registered midwives in Canada, including those who were educated internationally, have undergone rigorous assessments to ensure that they meet the requirements and professional standards to deliver safe, competent, high quality care in the Canadian health system.

How do midwives work with other health professionals?

Midwives coordinate or share appropriate aspects of care with other providers in community-based services and work in hospitals as part of integrated obstetrical teams. As members of collaborative teams midwives can improve access to care and ensure the sustainability of maternity services.

How can I get a midwife if I don't live near a model site?

Currently in Nova Scotia there are a limited number of midwives. Midwifery in Nova Scotia will expand based on a planned approach, using community readiness and identified need.

 Licensed midwives may work in private practice or in an arrangement with health care agencies or other providers.