AQW 20092/17-22 Written question to the Minister of Health
To ask the Minister of Health for an update on progress of the Continuity of Carer model during pregnancies.
Asked by Paula Bradshaw MLA on 8 June 2021
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 8 June 2021
- Answer due by
- 23 June 2021
- Answered
- 21 June 202113 days after tabling
- Department
- Department of Health
- Priority question
- No
Answer
Implementing a Continuity of Midwifery Carer (CoMC) model within Northern Ireland maternity services is crucial in ensuring that women, babies and families have the best and safest possible midwifery care.
My Department is planning the transformation of maternity services towards a CoMC model. This will require investment in staff and resources, so the imminent appointment of a Regional CoMC Midwife Consultant, and subsequently a CoMC Implementation Lead Midwife in each Health and Social Care Trust will allow this to be coordinated.
This work is pivotal to the new Northern Ireland Maternity Strategy, development of which was paused due to pressures arising from the COVID-19 crisis, but will recommence as soon as possible and accelerate the delivery of a CoMC model here.