Abstract
Background:Midwifery-led care is a high-certainty, evidence-based strategy to improve maternity care. Midwife-led units (MLUs) are one example of how the midwifery model of care is being integrated into existing health systems to transform maternal health around the world.Purpose:To promote global investment in MLUs by describing the benefits, current advances and future directions of this model of care.MethodA viewpoint based on prevalent notions of midwifery, research findings, guidance from professional organizations and authors’ professional experience.Conclusion:Renewed commitment to research and the implementation of MLUs across a variety of settings is needed to address the practice, education and policy issues associated with this evidence-based strategy. The World Health Organization “Year of the Nurse and Midwife-2020” is an opportune time to invest in midwifery models of care that are fundamental to achieving core global health initiatives such as Universal Healthcare 2030.
Highlights
Midwifery-led care is a high-certainty, evidence-based strategy to improve maternity care
Midwife-led units (MLUs) are one exemplar of how the midwifery model of care is being integrated into existing health systems to transform maternal health
The MLU is a relatively “new” care model in which the midwife is the primary healthcare professional caring for low-risk pregnant women, as opposed to being cared for by a medical team headed by an obstetrician or consultant [12]
Summary
We discuss midwifery led units (MLUs) in the global maternal health context as a strategic way to offer women-centered care and maximize the health outcomes of women and infants. Midwifery-led care is a high-certainty, evidence-based strategy to improve maternity care.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
