Collaboration in Maternity Care Possibilities and Challenges

The United States is about to face a maternity workforce crisis in the next decade because the number of medical students choosing obstetrics and gynecology is stagnant, the number of patients requiring care is increasing and many in the current workforce of obstetricians/gynecologists and midwives are ready to retire. There are not enough maternity providers to meet the future needs of women. Creative strategies must be explored to address these concerns. Collaborative practice among different types of maternity providers requires commitment, interpersonal skills, and teamwork. This article explores these issues and provides practical tips and a case study of the process in action between the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American College of Nurse-Midwives.