Responding to a rural health workforce shortfall : double degree preparation of the nurse midwife

Nursing education in Australia has been provided in the tertiary sector since the mid 1980s although the complete transfer of hospital based programs was not finalised until 1993. Pre-service nursing programs produce and graduate nurses who are generalist prepared and able to work in any practice context as novice registered nurses. Specialist education that traditionally incorporated midwifery was undertaken following registration and after a period of practice as a nurse. In recent years, views regarding midwifery as a specialism of nursing have been challenged by champions including the peak professional body representing midwifery, the Australian College of Midwives. Advocates maintained that women desire choices regarding birthing options and that midwives have, and continue to be dissatisfied with the current health care system that restricts their practice. By the beginning of the 21st Century, direct entry midwifery programs were part of the educational landscape.