The MIDAC CoCE Portal: connecting pregnant women with midwifery students in Victoria, Australia. (September 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cramer, Rhian; Mumford, Sharon; Tremayne, Anne; Bayes, Sara; Kruger, Gina; Achterbosch, Leigh; Hartney, Nikki
• Is Part Of: Women and birth. Volume 35(2022)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 39
• Publication Date: 2022-09
• Subjects: Midwives -- Periodicals; Pregnancy -- Periodicals; Midwifery -- Periodicals; Pregnancy -- Periodicals; 618.2
• DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2022.07.108
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1871-5192

Abstract

Abstract : Background: In Australia all pre-registration midwifery students are required to engage and partner with a minimum of ten women in midwifery continuity of care experiences (CoCE) throughout their course of study. Around 77, 000 women give birth in Victoria each year, however two out of three students report difficulties recruiting pregnant women as CoCE partners (Newton et al., 2021). On the basis of this evidence as well as the temporary additional CoCE difficulties caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Midwifery Academics of Victoria (MIDAC) group developed a web portal to support students to attain CoCE requirements wherein women can learn about CoCE and register to be partnered with a midwifery student from a university that works with the maternity service providing their care. Aim: The aim of this project was to facilitate midwifery students engaging in CoCE partnerships with childbearing women in the state of Victoria, Australia. Methods: A project team was convened comprising one lead and five other midwifery academics representing all universities offering pre-registration midwifery education in Victoria, Australia, as well as Information Technology staff members and students from one of those universities. The team worked together to develop the web portal's content, design and functionality over a period of 12 months. Results: The MIDAC CoCE web portal was launched in early 2022 with an accessible, responsive design suitable for desktop and mobile devices. QR code-enabled flyers are displayed in maternity health services enabling pregnant women to easily access the website and register their interest via a simple web form. The data is securely sent to that university's Professional Practice contact, who then pairs the woman with a suitable student. Evaluation is underway.