How Do Midwives View Their Professional Autonomy, Now and in Future?

ABSTRACT:

Background

Internationally, midwives' professional autonomy is being challenged, resulting in their inability to practice to their full scope of practice. This situation contrasts with the increasing international calls for strengthening the midwifery profession. The aim of this study therefore is to explore Belgian midwives' views on their current and future autonomy.

Methods

An online survey among Belgian midwives was performed. Data were collected and analyzed using a quantitative approach, while quotes from respondents were used to contextualize the quantitative data.

Results

Three hundred and twelve midwives from different regions and professional settings in Belgium completed the questionnaire. Eighty-five percentage of respondents believe that they are mostly o

SUBMITTER: Vermeulen J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10297976 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature