Abstract
Background
Continuity of Care Experiences (CoCEs) are a component of all entry-to-practice midwifery
programs in Australia and facilitate an understanding of the central midwifery philosophy
of woman-centred care and continuity of the therapeutic relationship. The aim of this
research was to explore how CoCEs are viewed and experienced by students and academics
across Australia.
Methods
Students enrolled in Australian midwifery programs and academics who teach into these
programs were invited to participate in a cross sectional, web-based survey. Data
were analysed using descriptive statistics and free text responses were analysed using
content analysis.
Findings
Four hundred and five students and 61 academics responded to the survey. The CoCE
was viewed as a positive and unique learning experience, preparing students to work
in midwifery-led continuity models and developing confidence in their midwifery role.
Challenges in recruitment, participation in care, and balancing the workload with
other course requirements were evident in reports from students, but less understood
by academics. Significant personal impact on finances, health and wellbeing of students
were also reported.
Discussion
The value of CoCEs as an experiential learning opportunity is clear, however, many
students report being challenged by elements of the CoCE within current models as
they try to maintain study-work-life balance.
Conclusion
Innovative course structure that considers and embeds the CoCE requirements within
the curricula, in addition to a collective commitment from regulatory bodies, the
maternity care sector and Universities to facilitate CoCEs for students may address
some of the significant student impacts that are reported by this research.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: June 11, 2021
Accepted:
May 28,
2021
Received in revised form:
May 26,
2021
Received:
March 16,
2021
Identification
Copyright
© 2021 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
