Managing a work–life balance: the experiences of midwives working in a group practice setting

Abstract

Objective To explore how a group of midwives achieved a work–life balance working within a caseload model of care with flexible work hours and on-call work. Design in-depth interviews were conducted and the data were analysed using a data-driven thematic analysis technique. Setting Children, Youth and Women's Health Service (CYWHS) (previously Women's and Children's Hospital), Adelaide, where a midwifery service known as Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) offers a caseload model of care to women within a midwife-managed unit. Participants 17 midwives who were currently working, or had previously worked, in MGP. Findings analysis of the midwives’ individual experiences provided insight into how midwives managed the flexible hours and on-call work to achieve a sustainable work–life balance within a caseload model of care. Key conclusions it is important for midwives working in MGP to actively manage the flexibility of their role with time on call. Organisational, team and individual structure influenced how flexibility of hours was managed; however, a period of adjustment was required to achieve this balance. Implications the study findings offer a description of effective, sustainable strategies to manage flexible hours and on-call work that may assist other midwives working in a similar role or considering this type of work setting.