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# Midwifery model of care selected for Yukon

A midwifery model of care has been selected for Yukon. Midwives will be employees of the Government of Yukon to ensure Yukoners have access to sustainable and integrated midwifery services.

Development of a model of care was informed by extensive research, input from public engagement, the work of the Midwifery Advisory Committee, and a recommendation received from the Canadian Association of Midwives.

The first action under the approved model will be to hire a Midwifery Consultant to coordinate the planning and program implementation. The position will be responsible for leading an Implementation Advisory Committee made up of a wide variety of stakeholders. The model of care will take a phased approach starting with full midwifery services being offered in Whitehorse.

The Government of Yukon is currently working with the Midwifery Advisory Committee to review draft regulations. The final regulations are expected for 2020 and will come into force with the launch of the midwifery program.

> We are very excited to move this initiative forward so that Yukoners can have another safe option that supports healthy pregnancies, childbirth and post-natal care. By working in partnership with all health care providers we are ensuring midwifery is integrated into Yukon’s healthcare system in a safe and sustainable way that provides Yukoners with access to the right care, at the right time and in the right place.

> We are committed to providing regulated and funded midwifery services for Yukon families. Draft regulations and the approved model of care both mark significant milestones. We look forward to working with the Midwifery Advisory Committee, stakeholders and communities as we create a sustainable path forward for midwifery in the Yukon.

Quick facts

- Yukon’s birth rate is approximately 400 per year, which is the lowest in Canada. In 2016–17, Yukon had 401 births, Nunavut 933 and Northwest Territories 666.

- It is expected that the first government-employed midwives will begin delivering babies in late summer 2021.

Media contact

Stewart Burnett
Cabinet Communications
867-332-0480
stewart.burnett@gov.yk.ca

Pat Living
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-667-3673
pat.living@yukon.yk.ca

News release #:
20-022