The Canadian Childbirth Association is predicting the province of Alberta can expect a baby boom starting in approximately 42 weeks as young couples across Alberta celebrate this weekend regarding the recent announcement of midwifery care coverage for all women in the province. Many women have been waiting to extend or start their families on this announcement. This is exciting news for all the women and men who have worked tirelessly throughout the years to accomplish this goal. Many thanks and gratitude to our Minister of Health and Wellness, The Honorable Ron Liepert and to the provincial government for approving midwifery funding for all Alberta women starting April 2009.
Gail J. Dahl, Executive Director, The Canadian Childbirth Association
Alberta expands health care coverage to midwifery – October 16th, 2008
Expectant mothers will have more choice and improved access to care
Edmonton… The Alberta government is improving access to maternity services by bringing midwives fully into the publicly funded health system. Effective April 1, 2009, expectant mothers who choose to have their babies with the assistance of a midwife will have that service covered.
“This decision will provide better access and more choice for expectant women and will relieve pressure on doctors, nurses and hospitals,” said Alberta Health and Wellness Minister Ron Liepert. “Expanding the use of midwifery services will also help address the pressures on family physicians and obstetricians and meet the goal of introducing new service delivery models as outlined in the Health Workforce Action Plan.”
With this change, expectant mothers will have access to innovative, publicly funded midwifery services in a variety of locations including hospitals, community birthing centers, or in their homes. Services will be accessible across the province, in accordance with midwifery guidelines.
http://web.mac.com/pregnancysecrets
