2008:02PU MIDWIFERY SERVICES IN CANADA
Whereas 1
- In 1986, the National Council of Women of Canada (NCWC) urged the Government of Canada to approve the legalization of midwifery.
Whereas 2
- Midwifery services are safe and cost-effective for women and infants during pregnancy and birth.
Whereas 3
- Not all provinces and territories have legalized midwifery or completed the process.
Whereas 4
- Up to 50% of midwifery requests go unfulfilled due to a midwife shortage.
Whereas 5
- Only 400 midwives are registered in Canada, and midwifery education spaces are limited.
Resolved 1
- That the NCWC adopt as policy that publicly funded, regulated midwifery services be established across all Canadian provinces and territories.
Resolved 2
- That the NCWC urge the Government of Canada to:
a. Regulate and publicly fund midwifery services in provinces where they are not yet regulated.
b. Facilitate the examination and accreditation of foreign-trained midwives.
c. Promote and encourage universal access to publicly-funded midwifery care.
Resolved 3
- That the NCWC urge Provincial and Local Councils of Women to encourage their governments to:
a. Include midwifery in health care human resource planning.
b. Facilitate the examination and accreditation of foreign-trained midwives.
c. Expand and develop midwifery education programs.