A: Midwifery services are provided free of charge by the Ministry of Health. There is no cost for midwifery care for women who have NZ residency or have a minimum of 2 year work visas. Maternity care is also free to those women whose partner meets the above criteria.
Q: Can I still see my family doctor, or an obstetrician as well as a midwife?
A: Midwives are primary caregivers, but during your care with your midwife, you may be referred to an obstetrician or another appropriate specialist if needed. With regards to your pregnancy, your midwife will continue to provide supportive care. For medical problems unrelated to your pregnancy, you will continue to see your family doctor.
Q: What if there are concerns about my baby or myself?
A: Midwives play a continuous role in your maternity care team. Should any concern about you or your baby arise, your midwife will arrange a consultation with the appropriate healthcare professional. Midwives work collaboratively with other health care professionals.
Q: Can I chose a Midwife from The Invercargill Midwife Centre if I am from outside the region but choose to birth at Southland Hospital?
A: Yes – we offer Labour and Birth support to women outside the region who elect to birth at Southland Hospital.