The Impact of Guidelines for the Collaboration Between Obstetricians & Midwives on Provider Satisfaction [15Q]. (May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Madkour, Amr; Smith, Patricia; Lyvers, Ashlee; Pinger, Whitney
• Is Part Of: Obstetrics and gynecology. Volume 129 (2017)Supplement 1
• Publication Date: 2017-05
• Subjects: Obstetrics -- Periodicals; Gynecology -- Periodicals; 618
• DOI: 10.1097/01.AOG.0000514124.65170.05
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0029-7844

Abstract

Abstract : INTRODUCTION: Collaborative guidelines were instituted at our academic practice to streamline the existing process of consultation, collaboration, and transfer of care between obstetricians and midwives. We aim to investigate attitudes of providers toward the collaborative model, and how the implementation of an institutional guidelines document influences perceived provider satisfaction, oversight of collaboration, and delivery of patient care. METHODS: A qualitative survey of the faculty was administered using an electronic data capture system. RESULTS: Thirty-three faculty members were sent surveys, 76% were completed (n = 25, 16 obstetricians, 9 midwives). All respondents perceived collaborative practice improves patient outcomes. Formal guidelines were reported as necessary to direct collaborative practice by 44%, while another 44% reported them to be unnecessary. Respondents either agreed or strongly agreed (100%) that a collaborative model improves vaginal delivery rate, and patient satisfaction. While one respondent was neutral, and another disagreed that a collaborative practice improves provider satisfaction with care, the remaining 91% agreed or strongly agreed that it does. Finally, while 70% of respondents disagreed that collaborative practice increases provider perceived stress associated with patient care, 24% were neutral, 8% agreed, and 4% strongly agreed. CONCLUSION: The majority of respondents agree that a collaborative model benefits patients and providers, but equally agree and disagree with formal guidelines to direct collaboration. Subsequent analysis will explore the relationship between responses and the role of the respondent. Additional research investigating such guidelines will be beneficial in understanding collaborative models, and will assist practices interested in implementing similar models.