Model of Care Resources

ICM has developed the definition of midwifery, used around the world as the basis of the profession.

This document provides a universal, description of the philosophy and model of midwifery care, without compromising local or regional characteristics of midwifery care.

This document provides strategic and practical guidance to countries transitioning to midwifery models of care.

This Guide provides a step-by-step approach to applying the Professional Framework for Midwifery to strengthen midwifery services, improve the quality of SRMNAH care, and support long-term health system improvements.

Every profession needs a structure to support it, strengthen it and guide its development, that includes all the elements required before an occupation can be considered a profession.

A global initiative to expand midwifery models of care, driving health equity and accelerating progress toward maternal and newborn health goals.

A global call to action for health systems to adopt midwifery models of care as a pathway to improved maternal and newborn outcomes.

The rights of migrants and refugees must be protected in all countries and in all circumstances. Midwives must ensure equity in access to SRMNH services regardless of a person's refugee status.

ICM supports normal childbirth as a physiological life event, promoting midwives' expertise and advocating for accessible, midwife-led care options within healthcare systems.

ICM advocates multi-professional collaboration for optimal sexual, reproductive, maternal, and newborn care, emphasizing trust, open communication, and strategic partnerships.

ICM asserts midwives must actively acquire and update knowledge, skills, and competency through professional education, ensuring accountability for their actions.

A midwife-led model of care means that the midwife is responsible for planning, organising, and delivering care to a woman from the initial booking of antenatal visits through to care during the postnatal period. The implementation of midwife-led care is critical to improving maternal and newborn health.