Hamad Medical Corporation’s Women’s Wellness and Research Centre (WWRC) has recorded a significant increase in the total number of home visits by midwives - from 60% in 2020 to 82% by August 2023 - through its Community Midwifery Postnatal Care Services being offered to women who give birth by Caesarean section.
Of a total of 503 women who gave birth by Caesarean section between 2020 and 2023, as many as 415 availed of the home care service, demonstrating an increased level of interest among communities in Qatar.
Community Midwifery Postnatal Care is the care delivered by community midwives, that includes prevention, early detection and referring women for treatment of complications, provision of advice and signposting to services, to ensure the highest standards of patient care and safety in the community. Currently, 13 dedicated professionals are managing and monitoring the programme's implementation and outcomes.
The aim of the service is to deliver safe, appropriate and timely midwifery postnatal care service to all C-Section women who meet the criteria in the home via a face-to-face visit 48 to 72 hours after discharge from the hospital. After the home visit, the women are followed up through teleconsultation service between days 10 to 14, after the initial visit or discharge.
The Community Midwifery Postnatal Care Services recently hosted an awareness day to promote midwifery postnatal home care service, its importance, and benefits among patients and their families.
Dr Hilal al-Rifai, medical director and CEO of WWRC said: “Our dedicated midwives and healthcare experts ensure personalised, comprehensive care, prioritising both mother and baby's wellbeing during this critical postnatal period. We believe in nurturing, supporting and empowering mothers as we redefine postnatal care in a world where home is their haven.”
Saadiya al-Hebail, acting executive director, Nursing and Midwifery for WWRC and ACC added: “Our commitment reflects our dedication to ensuring the wellbeing of mothers and newborns, setting a new standard in maternal and infant care. The positive reception within the Doha community affirms our mission to provide exceptional care. The expansion and reach of this programme helps us reach those in need, delivering high-quality care in the comfort of their homes.”