In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of midwifery in the healthcare landscape, particularly in Canada. The evolving field of midwifery seeks to offer an alternative that prioritizes the holistic care of women, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. To ensure that this approach is backed by solid research and informed clinical practices, professionals in the field know that a structured framework guiding research priorities is essential. Addressing this need, a pivotal Delphi consensus study was conducted by a team of experts led by scholars B. Murray-Davis, E. Ruby, and J. Rack, who aimed to establish a midwifery research priority framework tailored for Canada.
The Delphi method, as utilized in this study, is noteworthy for its collaborative and iterative nature. It involves multiple rounds of surveys to gather expert opinions on specific issues, allowing consensus to emerge through structured dialogue. The flexibility of this approach makes it particularly suited for dynamic fields such as midwifery, where multiple variables and community needs must be considered. By including diverse contributions from midwives, researchers, and stakeholders, the study managed to converge on critical areas of research that could shape the future of midwifery practice.
The results of the Delphi consensus study highlight several key themes that will guide future research initiatives within Canadian midwifery. First among them is the emphasis on maternal and infant health outcomes, which remain paramount in midwifery discussions. Not only do these outcomes encompass the physical well-being of mothers and infants, but they also reflect broader social determinants of health, inclusive of mental well-being, environmental factors, and socio-economic status. Hence, the framework proposes that research should consider how midwifery practices can effectively address these multifaceted issues.
Moreover, the team behind the study underlines the need for continued education and training among midwives to ensure best practices are disseminated and adopted. The incorporation of evidence-based practices into the curriculum of midwifery programs must reflect current research findings and patient needs. For practitioners already in the field, ongoing professional development should focus on emerging studies that align with the established research priorities. This can foster a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability responsive to evolving health trends.
One significant aspect of the research priority framework is its call to integrate indigenous perspectives into midwifery research. Indigenous women often experience disparate health outcomes and barriers to care that must be acknowledged and addressed. The consensus study advocates for research that not only recognizes but elevates the voices and experiences of indigenous populations, making it possible to develop culturally relevant midwifery practices. This integration is fundamental to ensure that care provided respects traditional knowledge systems while still adhering to contemporary medical standards.
The importance of technology in enhancing midwifery practices is another pivotal theme from this research. As digital health resources and telehealth services gain traction, midwifery can embrace these innovations to expand access and support for families. The consensus study emphasizes that exploring how technology can be effectively integrated into midwifery care is essential for addressing gaps in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural or underserved populations. This focus can not only facilitate communication between midwives and their clients but also broaden the reach of educational resources.
The Delphi consensus findings also underscore the necessity for policy advocacy in furthering midwifery practices within the Canadian healthcare system. As midwives navigate a complex landscape of healthcare policies, it is crucial that research informs and shapes these discussions. By fostering collaborations with policymakers and stakeholders, midwives can position themselves as key contributors to shaping maternal and child health policy, ensuring that evidence-based practices gain traction in legislative considerations.
Equally important is the need for the research priority framework to address the disparities that exist within midwifery practice itself. Issues of accessibility, equity, and inclusion must permeate all levels of research and practice, allowing midwifery to serve as a model for holistic, patient-centered care. The Delphi study serves as a call to action for researchers to explore these disparities systematically, identifying barriers that prevent equitable access to midwifery services for all women in Canada.
Another imperative outlined in the framework is the focus on mental health resources available to pregnant and postpartum women. Mental health is often overshadowed in discussions about midwifery, yet it plays a crucial role in maternal and infant health outcomes. The consensus study suggests that future research should investigate how midwifery models can effectively identify, address, and support mental health concerns, facilitating comprehensive care that encompasses both physical and emotional well-being.
In appraising the results of the Delphi consensus study, the commitment to participatory research elevates the dialogue around midwifery. Engaging stakeholders and community members in health research fosters a sense of ownership and relevance, forging stronger ties between healthcare providers and the populations they serve. Future midwifery research must incorporate community voices, ensuring that studies reflect real-world needs and preferences.
As the study concludes, the framework offers a strategic roadmap for advancing midwifery research in Canada. By laying out clear priorities, it enables a comprehensive approach that aligns with the evolving landscape of maternal health. The collaboration between academics, practitioners, and policymakers highlighted in the findings suggests a unified effort toward better maternal and infant health outcomes.
In summary, the development of a midwifery research priority framework in Canada marks a significant advancement in the field. It empowers midwives and researchers to take collective actions grounded in evidence while prioritizing the diverse needs of women and families. This framework stands as a beacon for future studies and practice, ensuring midwifery can continue to evolve while remaining deeply committed to the families it serves. As further research unfolds, it is hopeful that this initiative will yield transformative changes in maternal health, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more equitable society for years to come.
Subject of Research: Midwifery research priorities in Canada.
Article Title: Developing a Canadian midwifery research priority framework: a Delphi consensus study.
Article References: Murray-Davis, B., Ruby, E., Rack, J. et al. Developing a Canadian midwifery research priority framework: a Delphi consensus study. Health Res Policy Sys 23, 126 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12961-025-01401-0
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Keywords: Midwifery, maternal health, Delphi consensus, equitable care, health policy, Canada, research priorities.
