This letter appeared in the Sydney Morning Herald yesterday:
Insurers put profits above obligations
The decision by Guild Insurance to withdraw indemnity cover from independent
midwives ("Homebirths in peril as midwives lose insurance cover", Herald,
July 7) is a tragedy for all birthing women.
It is just another example of insurers placing a cost-benefit analysis above
their obligations as good corporate citizens.
Did Guild consider the effect on the pregnant clients of those midwives when
providing them with 28 days' notice of the cancellation of their indemnity?
Guild was the primary provider of indemnity cover to midwives. Did it
discuss its concerns with the Australian Society of Independent Midwives, or
was it acceptable that it effectively wipe out the viability of the
homebirthing industry in one sweep?
Guild's decision not only affects hundreds of women who are now preparing
for homebirth, but also robs all women of their right to access this
birthing option.
Homebirths will not disappear, but the option for a safe and supervised
homebirth will. Where does the risk to birthing mothers and their babies sit
on your balance sheet, Guild Insurance?
Virginia Miltrup, Homebirth Access Sydney, Hornsby, July 8.
Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond
Caring, Professional Midwifery Services
Sydney Visit http://www.pregnancy.com.au
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