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Enhancing collaboration between midwives and obstetricians: A qualitative content analysis study
Liesa Beier1, Ans Luyben2, Qendresa Thaqi3
1Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, Zurich 8091, Switzerland; Private University of the Principality of Liechtenstein (UFL), Department of Medical Sciences, Dorfstrasse 24, Triesen 9495, Liechtenstein.
Problem:
Collaboration between midwives and obstetricians is insufficiently developed in Swiss and other healthcare systems.
Background:
Collaboration in maternity care impacts birth outcomes. Previous studies have focused on determinants of collaboration, but it remains unclear how to promote interprofessional birthing care.
Aim:
This study aimed to identify strategies for enhancing collaboration between midwives and obstetricians.
Methods:
We conducted a qualitative content analysis study with midwives and obstetricians in three acute care hospitals in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. Data were collected through focus group interviews and analysed using inductive content analysis following Graneheim and Lundman.
Findings:
Eleven midwives and nine obstetricians participated. Three strategies with seven categories emerged that might enhance collaboration between midwives and obstetricians on Swiss labour wards: (1) getting to know each other, (2) building trustful relationships, and (3) creating safe practice environments for collaborative practice.
Discussion:
The findings highlight the need to promote early mutual understanding of professional roles, responsibilities, and care philosophies. Trust-building through open communication and shared decision-making was considered vital for effective collaboration. Early and ongoing joint opportunities for education, training, and professional development is required. Systemic, structural support is necessary, including shared workflow, established, interprofessional communication structures, and leadership that fosters psychological safety. Organisational commitment is essential to embedding collaboration in practice.
Conclusion:
Enhancing collaboration in maternity care requires a multi-level approach. Efforts should focus on interprofessional learning, mutual understanding of roles, trust-building practices, and supportive institutional structures. Leadership that models inclusive behaviours and reduces perceived hierarchies is key to strengthening collaboration.
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