Clinical Outcomes and Women's Experiences of the 'OMGP' Model of Care.

BACKGROUND

Women living with diabetes face elevated risks in pregnancy. Fragmented traditional care can leave women feeling disempowered. Continuity of midwifery care offers benefits, leading to the implementation of a specialist Obstetric Medicine Midwifery Group Practice (OMGP) at our facility.

AIMS: This study evaluated the OMGP model for pregnant women with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes by comparing maternal/neonatal outcomes and women's experiences with traditional care at a major Queensland hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHOD: A mixed-methods pre/post design compared routinely collected data from 56 women in traditional care (Mar-Aug 2023) with 38 women in OMGP (Sep 2023-Feb 2024). Surveys assessed experiences in both groups (17 traditional, 22 OMGP). Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS, and qualitative responses were thematically analysed.

RESULTS

The OMGP group showed a significantly higher mean gestational age at delivery (37.4 vs. 36.0 weeks, p = 0.007) and antenatal expressing rate (76.3% vs. 33.9%, p = 0.04). Women in OMGP also reported more positive postnatal home care experiences (p < 0.001). Qualitative data highlighted strengths of OMGP (midwifery care, continuity) versus traditional care weaknesses (fragmented labour care, postnatal support).

CONCLUSIONS

OMGP was associated with improved maternal experiences and gestational age at delivery without compromising other clinical outcomes. Integrating specialist medical support with continuity of midwifery care enhances the perinatal journey for women with diabetes.