To those on the list who are interested in the politics of PI Insurance for midwives [this advice pertains specifically to Victoria]: I have had a meeting with Anne Marie Scully, Professional Officer for ANF Victorian Branch. This message is my own notation after the meeting, and is not formal advice from ANF. The ANF insurer is due to review PI cover for members of ANF in September. * The crux of the PI Insurance issue is that the person is NOT AN EMPLOYEE (ie not covered by a hospital's vicarious liability) at the time under question. They may be an employee at other times. The issue that midwives are facing now should be understood as an issue that also affects any registered nurse who is working outside an employment structure (hospital, other agency). These nurses include a nurse who assists a surgeon, and goes to hospitals to work alongside the surgeon. Victorian Nurse Practitioner legislation will be in effect in November. Midwives, Nurse Practitioners, and practice nurses are all able to do what they are professionally qualified to do, regardless of whether they are employed by a hospital, or not. I expect ANF will be taking this global position rather than looking at what the member does specifically. This gives strength in numbers, and proven strength in industrial relations. * As long as midwives have to be registered as nurses in Australia, midwives can use whatever provisions are set up for nurses. * The title 'midwife' is protected in the Nurses Act 1993. The role and scope of practice has been defined by the NBV in the Code of Practice. * "Each midwife should ensure that there are satisfactory arrangements in place for their professional indemnity insurance" (Code of Practice for Midwives in Vic. Other States have similar statements) I have put a cc to Anne Marie. Joy Johnston 25 Eley Rd Blackburn South Vic 3130 Tel: 03 9808 9614 Fax: 03 9808 3611 M: 04111 90448 www.aitex.com.au/joy.htm -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.
