Title:
BARRIERS TO PROVISION OF COMPETENT MIDWIFERY CARE IN RURAL ZIMBABWE: SUPERVISORS PERSPECTIVE

Authors:
Abigail Kapfunde , Clara Haruzivishe , Christopher Samkange and Babil Stray-Pederson

Abstract:
Competent midwifery care entails provision of basic essential care, early detection, management and referral of selected emergencies as stipulated in the midwifery practice standards and ICM essential competences. Loosing life while giving life has become a global concern with Zimbabwe recording 47% preventable deaths in 2015. The aim of this study was to explore what the midwives’ supervisors and key stakeholders perceive as barriers to provision of competent midwifery care in rural maternity units in Zimbabwe. This qualitative descriptive study was based on interpretive paradigm Interviews and focused group discussions (FGD) with 13 immediate supervisors from six health care institutions and key informants from province and national organizations were held with an interview guide. Both interviews and FGD were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Content analysis following basic steps of abstraction, creating codes, sub-themes and finally themes was done manually to ensure Data trustworthiness and credibility of findings. Four themes yielded included unstandardized education system, unclear practice parameters, lack of professional recognition and supportive environment. The adoption of a scope of practice framework for competence midwifery practice by the regulatory authority will provide the much needed light at the end of the tunnel for midwifery education, regulation and practice in Zimbabwe