Source: Health Quality and Safety Commission
This Te Rā Haumaru Tūroro o Aotearoa | Aotearoa Patient Safety Day 2021 (17 November) we’re celebrating culturally responsive maternity care for whānau, to support maternal wellbeing and maternal and newborn safety.
This year’s theme aligns with the theme of the World Health Organization’s World Patient Safety Day ‘Safe maternal and newborn care’ (more information here).
The Health Quality & Safety Commission (the Commission) has marked the day with the release of five videos telling the stories of pregnant women and their whānau, and two midwives with a strong focus on safe and culturally responsive care.
Dr Janice Wilson, chief executive for the Commission, says it’s important to recognise that positive maternity care looks different for different people.
‘We hope those working in health care will watch the videos and challenge themselves to have open discussions with pregnant women and people about what they want and need to feel safe and supported during pregnancy and after birth. Listen authentically to the women and consider how to incorporate their needs throughout their pregnancy.
‘It’s about asking, “What matters to you?” and checking your own biases that may affect care. By being culturally responsive, we can improve outcomes for all parents and babies.
‘I want to mihi to all the wonderful wāhine, aiga and whānau who took part in this project.’
With thanks to our sector partners the New Zealand College of Midwives and the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists
