Shortage of 3,000 midwives puts mothers and newborn at risk
The International Day of the Midwife, which falls today, is a reminder that the shortage of midwives in the state sector negatively influences maternal care and is taking a heavy toll on the families they care for.
Typically, one midwife should assist 1,500–2,500 mothers, according to Family Health Bureau (FHB) guidelines. It says it is taking measures to address the shortfall of 3,000 midwives.
In addition to being the foundation of healthcare for women and children, midwives have a significant role in reducing the death rate among mothers and newborns. Under these circumstances, the need for consistent hiring, sufficient funding, and a larger midwifery cadre becomes apparent.
Family Health Bureau (FHB) Director Dr. Chitramalee De Silva said she expects “the current batch to pass out by the middle of this year after placement and training and will be recruited’’.
Moreover, another 1,000 will be recruited following field training, Dr. De Silva said.
Noting the challenging circumstances in the Western Province itself, an official of the Government Midwife Services Association (GMSA) said promotions and remuneration are now on hold. The mobile allowance, travel allowance, and stationery have not been provided for more than two years.
Since the majority of midwives are from Colombo, they also face constraints at work that affect their ability to support themselves in residential settings. According to her, the Rs. 750 state allowance for each midwife to set up an office in their area and fulfill their responsibilities is not enough.
Dr. De Silva said discussions are ongoing with the Ministry of Health to address challenges experienced by midwives.
Although the Cabinet has approved the recruitment of 3,000 midwives in 2020, this has not happened. Students who passed their interviews in 2015 were placed after four years due to several deficiencies at the ministry. At present, 1,200 qualified applicants are awaiting jobs. Mostly, the student midwives are placed to pass one academic year and then undergo six months of clinical training from nursing institutions, said the GMSA official.
Overall, the GMSA is seeking a prompt solution and hoping for a favourable response from the government. It wants 3,000 midwives to be hired.
At present, 1,200 qualified applicants are awaiting jobs. Mostly, the student midwives are placed to pass one academic year and then undergo six months of clinical training from nursing institutions.