Caught in the web: e-health and midwifery practice

Abstract

This article explores the concept of e-health, which is the process of providing health care by electronic means, in particular via the internet. A major force behind e-health is the increase in demand for health information and resources from consumers. Internet technology can provide practical clinical support for midwives and facilitate easy access to evidence-based information, increasing consumer empowerment and involvement in decision-making. However, there are concerns that e-health will interfere with relationships between consumers and health professionals. E-health is here to stay and the challenge for midwives is that they do not ignore it, but rather work to exploit its potential for both maternity consumers and the midwifery profession.