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Poor maternal outcomes: A factor of poor professional systems design
Abstract
The integrated approach to training of nurse professionals, which includes midwifery as a part of undergraduate training, has a devastating effect on the quality of midwifery. Training of midwifery is unfocused and forced upon those who have no interest in improving maternal outcomes. Maternal care is provided in professional silos by professionals who are not equipped with appropriate skills. Unless this systems design error is corrected, and a single-output training model introduced to professionals providing maternal care, we are unlikely to see a a major change in our maternal outcomes. New models based on inter-professional training and task sharing need to be developed for the country, including redefining of professional accountability for maternal care.
Authors' affiliations
M G Schoon, Free State Department of Health andDepartment of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Free State University, Bloemfontein
M W A Motlolometsi, Mother and Child Unit, Free State Department of Health
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Article History
Date published: 2012-08-24
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