An expanded midwifery service has launched at Lismore Base Hospital, giving more women and families across Northern NSW access to continuity of care throughout pregnancy and the first weeks after birth.

The expanded Midwifery Antenatal and Postnatal Service (MAPS) allows women to receive care from a known primary midwife during pregnancy and for up to two weeks after their baby is born.

The service is led by a Clinical Midwifery Specialist and includes a dedicated team of five midwives working alongside obstetric, paediatric and allied health professionals.

Since the program began in September last year, 293 women have chosen the model of care at Lismore Base Hospital. As of March 31, 120 babies had been born through the program.

The expanded MAPS program adds to existing maternity services already offered at the hospital, including the Midwifery Group Practice model.

The NSW Government has invested $44.8 million into maternity care across the state, including funding for an additional 53 full-time equivalent midwives in regional NSW.

NSW Regional Health Minister Ryan Park said the model was designed to improve outcomes for women and babies.

“We want all women in NSW to have access to world-class maternity care, no matter where they live,” he said.

“This model of care is proven to improve the experiences for women, and I’m proud to see it expanding into regional areas like Northern NSW.”

Janelle Saffin MP said women’s health advocates had long pushed for continuity of care throughout pregnancy and early motherhood.

“This is important support for the woman, the baby and the family,” she said.

Northern NSW Local Health District maternity services manager Fiona Minnis said evidence showed midwifery-led services improved outcomes and patient satisfaction.

“Having a known midwife builds a trusted therapeutic relationship,” she said.

Women interested in joining the MAPS program can speak with their GP or contact the Lismore Base Hospital antenatal clinic.