Midwifery model achieves positive outcomes

Researchers say a collaborative care model employing certified nurse midwives to lead obstetric care teams is improving the quality of care at one midwestern hospital. Mayo Clinic Health System–Franciscan Healthcare in La Crosse, Wis., adopted the model in 2014 to counter the growing shortage of obstetricians. Three years later, researchers saw decreases in primary caesarian section births, vaginal operative deliveries, neonatal intensive care unit admissions and length of patient stay. The researchers believe the model can be effective in providing safe and effective obstetrical care in other hospitals. (Newswise news release, 1/15/20)