Oak Valley Health is ushering in a new era of midwifery care with its Midwifery Program and group model of care format, set to launch this fall. This innovative approach represents a shift from traditional one-on-one care to a collaborative group model aimed at enhancing access to care and fostering community support.
Enhancing patient support through group care
Oak Valley Health is the first hospital in Canada to introduce a group model of care, with one-on-one antenatal care already underway and deliveries scheduled to begin in July. The program will transition to the group model of care in the fall of 2024. Patients have expressed appreciation for accessible and supportive maternity services, regardless of the care model.
The group model is particularly beneficial for newcomers to Canada and those without access to primary care during pregnancy, providing robust support for patients or individuals without an established community network. This philosophy emphasizes comprehensive care that addresses both clinical needs and emotional well-being.
Collaboration and innovation
Driven by Oak Valley Health’s commitment to innovation and patient-centred care, the midwives have brought their various backgrounds and expertise to the table for deeper engagement and shared knowledge in the decision-making and program development.
Meet the team of midwives, who bring diverse expertise and a passion for compassionate care to Oak Valley Health:
- Shannon Cameron: With a focus on supporting diverse family structures, Shannon brings eight years of experience and a passion for inclusive care.
- Ashley Grant: A familiar face at Oak Valley Health, Ashley has honed her skills in community midwifery and is dedicated to patient-centred care.
- Jenny Ma: With a background in diverse populations, Jenny brings extensive experience and a commitment to informative, educational care.
- Sojourner San Vicente: Sojourner enriches the team with a background in kinesiology and a dedication to prenatal education, clinical precepting, and increasing awareness of midwifery care.
- Rebecca Crone: Inspired by her own journey into motherhood, Rebecca’s career spans urban and rural settings, enriching her ability to provide compassionate care.
Partnership with Ontario Tech University
Oak Valley Health has partnered with Ontario Tech University to enhance program effectiveness through research, focus groups, and evaluations aimed at advancing midwifery practices in Ontario.
Looking ahead with Ontario Tech University
As Oak Valley Health prepares to launch its Midwifery Program, enthusiasm is high among staff and patients alike. Oak Valley Health’s Midwifery Program represents a transformative approach to care delivery—one that prioritizes community, support, and innovation in midwifery. With a dedicated team and collaborative spirit, this initiative sets a precedent for inclusive and sustainable pregnancy health care practices, aiming to redefine midwifery care standards across the province.