Strategies to improve the quality of midwifery care and developing midwife-centered care in Iran: Analyzing the attitudes of midwifery experts
Abstract Background: This study was conducted to provide strategies for improving the quality of midwifery care and developing midwife-centered care in Iran. Methods: A qualitative study using the content analysis method was conducted. Data were collected from 121 participants, including midwifery board members, gynecologists, head of midwifery departments, midwifery students, in charge midwives in the hospitals, and midwives in the private sector in order to find the best strategies for improving the quality of midwifery care and developing midwife-centered care in Iran. Focused-group discussions were used for data gathering, and data were analyzed using content analysis method. Results: The main strategies that participants mentioned for improving the quality of midwifery care were as follow: education, manpower, incentive and support system, midwifery care and duties, equipment and facilities, policy making, monitoring and interdisciplinary activities. Conclusion: Authorities and policymakers may set the stage for developing high quality and affordable midwifery care by relying on the strategies presented in this study.