Midwifery Group Practice to boost birthing choices in the Pilbara

More maternal and newborn care options are now available in the Pilbara after the Cook Government launched its award-winning Midwifery Group Practice (MGP) model in Karratha.

Run by the WA Country Health Service (WACHS), the 12-month trial will see women and families cared for by a known midwife throughout their pregnancy journey, during labour and birth, and postnatally.

This model of care fosters a trusting relationship between a woman and her clinician team and enables continuity of care.

MGP models have been shown to lower postnatal depression rates, increase breastfeeding rates and lead to shorter lengths of stay in hospital.

It is expected the new Karratha MGP will support around 140 women throughout the pilot period.