..... It would be easier for me to keep my mouth shut, but I feel compelled to say something here.
I was also at the last Homebirth Australia AGM at Noosa (Nov 2000 I think) and contributed to the discussion about statistics. It was my first HBA meeting, so I do not understand all the 'history'. I was not practising in homebirth when the last set of statistics were collected by HBA. I have contributed to MIPP (midwives in private practice Vic) statistics which have been reported at midwifery conferences and submitted for publication. It was clear in the HBA meeting that midwives would need to be satisfied that their data would be properly managed before they submitted it to anyone. That was no criticism of any person. When I see a proposal for data collection I will consider it, regardless of who is managing it. There were lots of other issues raised in this discussion. I plead with all who are committed to reform of maternity services in Australia to address the problems, and not allow personal conflict to arise. We can all contribute something, and can be strengthened in the process. Joy Johnston -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.
