What is Group Community Care?

Very good question! Group community care incorporates the love, support and guidance of midwifery in a group setting. Instead of one-on-one appointments, your prenatal care will take place in a group, offering the benefit of education AND connection with other birthing people. You will still have one-on-one time with a midwife at each appointment, but this model encourages community connection and offers flexibility for both RCM and you!

Logistics

Group care means you will be placed in a cohort with others that are due around the same time (trimester specific). Appointments are held at RCM, often in the evening or on weekends, offering more options for those who work M-F/9-5. Each appointment will include an educational element with various providers (midwives, doulas, therapists, lactation specialists etc.) Topics covered include nutrition, labor prep, partner support, mental health, pelvic floor, newborn/postpartum expectations, lactation and so much more! All the same tests/clinical assessments and standard of care are available with this model, with the added benefit of snacks, adult conversation and community connection!

why?

Research suggests that Group Prenatal Care has huge benefits and is often referred to as “Centering” care. Due to COVID many group programs were discontinued, and research has mainly focused on hospital-based practices. As a Community Midwife working towards a master's in public health, I believe this model has incredible benefits.