Midwifery

With an annual birth rate of approx 500, the team at Wairarapa District Health Board Maternity Unit is committed to providing women centred care of the highest standard. We provide primary and secondary services, and work alongside local Lead Maternity Carers (LMCs) supporting their practice. Our unit has 6 inpatient beds along with 3 delivery suites. Midwives work in pairs to care for, support and educate women during their stay.

Our experienced staff work across the scope of midwifery practice providing care in antenatal, labour, birth and postnatal settings. Focusing on whanau and healthy lifestyles, we individualise care and strive to meet the needs of all women who utilize our service.

Teamwork and collaboration are an integral part of our practice, and with the Wairarapa's reputation for 'thinking outside the box', you may find yourself working with some non-traditional partners as we work together for a 'Well Wairarapa'.

A collaborative model is utilised at the Wairarapa DHB which recognises and values the input of all members of the MDT. Employed midwives work with self employed midwives and general practitioner Lead Maternity Carers as well as a small team of Obstetricians.

Midwifery Development

We are supported to participate in professional development with the DHB offering a variety of education and update opportunities along with the requirements of our Annual Practising Certificate. Quality and Leadership Programme (QLP)

Wairarapa DHB has a QLP which provides a framework to assist midwives to meet their responsibilities in a manner which models partnership between employer and employee. It is based on the standards of the profession which apply to all midwives regardless of practice setting or employment status.

The Programme assists and supports the midwives in professional development, skill and knowledge development. The development, support and recognition of midwifery expertise by DHB employers promotes excellence in the care of women and their babies throughout the childbirth process.