Ultrasound Imaging in Midwifery Practice

Abstract

Long wait times in Canada have led to challenges in accessing timely care. Expanding the scopes of practice of non-physician health professionals may be a solution and has been implemented in Canada and abroad. In 2018, the College of Midwives of Ontario expanded the scope of practice of registered midwives to include obstetric ultrasound imaging. A mixed-methods study was conducted to investigate the interest of midwives in adopting ultrasound imaging in clinical practice and the factors that may influence their interest and support for the professional scope expansion. It investigated midwives’ perceived risks, benefits, enablers and barriers in performing ultrasound imaging and the ultrasound examinations or tasks considered most appropriate for them to do. The data were analyzed using qualitative coding and thematic analysis as well as descriptive statistics and regression analysis. It was found that both interest and support were generally high. The interest was found to be highest for limited examinations and tasks with specific clinical indications. Many believed the practice would improve access to care. There were, however, still many questions around remuneration, training, equipment and concerns around potential liability issues.