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34
MIDWIFERY
Miss M. C. Martin, S.R.N., S.C.M
Non-Medical Supervisor of Midwives
Group Attachment of Domiciliary Midwives
A pilot scheme for the attachment of a Domiciliary Midwife
to a group of General Practitioners was commenced in August,
1969, for one year. Patients say they have felt the benefit of more
complete Doctor/Midwife liaison. The doctors and midwives
concerned felt they were working more efficiently and with more
job satisfaction. A further review of the scheme will be made
in August, 1970, and it is hoped, as a result, to extend attachment
of midwives to group practitioners.
Integrated Cases
A further pilot scheme for domiciliary midwives to deliver
selected cases in hospital, followed by early discharge, was commenced
in conjunction with Queen Mary's Maternity Unit, Sidcup.
So far the scheme has run smoothly with good co-operation
between domiciliary and hospital staffs.
Preliminary discussions have taken place at Beckenham
Maternity Hospital between the Consultant Obstetrician, Senior
Medical Officer, Senior Nursing Officer and Supervisor of Midwives,
with a view to starting a similar scheme in that area.
Guthrie Test
Preparations were made to commence the Guthrie test on
all babies born in 1970. Midwives were instructed in the technique
of making the Guthrie test where necessary.
Accommodation for Midwives
Two new midwives have been accommodated through the
Housing and Estates Departments.
Community Care Programme for Student Midwives
A greatly extended community care programme was arranged
for student midwives receiving their domiciliary training in the
Borough.
Excellent co-operation has been achieved with other departments
including Moral Welfare, Children's Department, Geriatric
Unit and old people's homes. Further improvement in the programme
is envisaged.