RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: Women receiving continuity of midwifery care have increased satisfaction and improved outcomes. Preparation of midwifery students to work in continuity models from the point of graduation may provide an ongoing midwifery workforce that meets rising demand from women for access to such care. AIM OF THE PAPER: The aim of this paper is to describe an innovative midwifery course based on a continuity model, where students acquire more than 50 % of clinical hours through continuity of care experiences. Additional educational strategies incorporated in the course to enhance the CCE experience within the philosophy of midwifery care, include a virtual maternity centre, case-based learning and the Resources Activities Support Evaluation (RASE) pedagogical model of learning. DISCUSSION: Australian accredited midwifery courses vary in structure, format and philosophy; this new course provides students with an alternative option of study for those who have a particular interest in continuity of midwifery care. CONCLUSION: A midwifery course which provides the majority of clinical hours through continuity of care may prepare graduates for employment within midwifery group practice models by demonstrating the benefits of relationship building, improved outcomes and the reality of an on-call lifestyle.
