Re: [ozmidwifery] Queries re PI insurance
Sue that is a very good point that I had not considered and would like an answer to. Did this come up in the discussion anyone who was there?Andrea QuanchiOn 06/09/2006, at 6:55 PM, Sue Cookson wrote: Firstly, there are BMid courses which allow students to attend with homebirth midwives - I'm in one and it's OK to do that. My insurance is covered by my uni. Secondly, I am concerned about a few aspects of this insurance deal - namely if I attend homebirths for women in categories where referral/transfer is recommended according to the ACMI National Midwifery Guidelines for Consultation and Referral - like VBACs, twins, postdates, breech etc- will the insurance company cover me for these births? Those who know Maggie's story - she was covered by PI insurance, but the insurance company found ways to withdraw from their obligations to her for various reasons. So I guess my question is about control of our practices. Will we have to notify the insurers of everyone we take on and their pregnancy histories etc for scrutinising, or will we only find these answers if and when problems arise? I'm happy to put my name down to look at these issues ... don't forget, we can only join up by choice... even as I say that, will it become 'illegal' to not join up if the majority do ... Food for thought, SueDear Lisa and All I agree Lisa we need to dispel fear around HB but to do that it needs to be accessible. Your experience of BMid students attending HB is a 1 off. I don’t believe any other BMid course enable students to work with IPM’s doing HB. They also have trouble finding continuity models (and yes WC in Adelaide is again different!). But what I want to respond to is the idea that insurance is just for midwives. What about women? I have had 6 children at home and I have NO FEAR!!! 2 with insurance and 4 without. I understand the legal issues and I TAKE RESPONSIBILITY and would be very unlikely to sue, but this is not the point. I do however believe that HB women must have the same rights as those accessing GP’s and Ob’s. Insurance is seen as a consumer safety mechanism just as it is seen as a professional protection for midwives. This policy to me is very worthwhile as it allows for coverage on a per birth basis. It will enable many more midwives wanting to ‘dip their toe in’ to private practice that chance. It has the capacity to transform maternity services. We can use the flexibility of this policy (and the business arrangements they offer) to recruit midwives who are currently reluctant to step outside of the system. Private midwifery could actually be a mainstream option with women choosing where they give birth. With PI ,midwives could be granted admitting rights and could therefore offer the marketplace a service in the home or hospital. I have spent 6.5 years advocating for women and midwives and 5 fighting for PI insurance. I can safely say that politically midwives will get nowhere without PI. With 200 midwives we can sell 1-2-1 midwifery further than HB (although HB is my passion!!). Yesterday Manchester Unity refused to pay for a homebirth (even though they offer midwifery rebates) citing a lack of PI as the reason. HBA are also reconsidering and MBF has ceased paying out for HB’s for the same reason. I have never had private health insurance and never will, but this is not about the few, again this is about reaching many more women. Private Health is well supported by the Fed Gov and it is a way to reach many more women. Fear can not be easily dispelled by something that is so poorly supported (ie by public or private funding). With an influx of private midwifery there is a much better chance that Medicare will flow on to midwives in their own right (rather than the current idea re Medicare item number 16400 that requires Drs overseeing midwives). Lisa you cannot liken the UK to here. Although I think team midwifery for homebirth is the pits, women in the UK have a legislative right to a public funded homebirth, even saying that in Australia would be considered reasonably outrageous. Unlike the UK, Independent midwifery is the only option for the vast majority of Aust women wanting a HB. Barb Vernon is one very busy person who is pushed and pulled in many directions but like us she is working hard to achieve this. She is recording every e-mail etc received in the hope we get to 200 soon. I hope you appreciate the benefits of this policy in both per birth coverage and business structure; and whilst I acknowledge some IPM’s with established practices may have preferred that this was not a requirement I hope that they too can think with a world view as we consumers are. In solidarity Justine Caines Homebirth Australia Maternity Coalition For the homebirth movement to move forward here we need to dispel the fear that women have surrounding birth, no amount of insurance can do that. I don't
RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Message Lisa, There is a word that describes those who are not members of an organisation/collective that declines to financially contribute to collective funds or provide input or energies yet expect to benefit or be rewarded bythe wins such as pay risesnegotiated by a collective group such as by a union. I will not say the word in such polite company but others will know a festering sore heals ever so slowly when constantly rubbed. I get rubbed by this all the time! However I would suggest Lisa you seriously consider why membership to your professional college would benefit you and especially to the woman you claim to 'care' for. We cannot take a Robinson Crusoe view and think midwives are on their own island when we have so many financial, political, professional, ethical and various codes of practice we are all expected to be accountable to. At the present time the College does not have the resources or funds to be able to provide legal or financial officers. They leave the industrial framework many midwives work in to the various unions in each state, howeverunfortunately named, the ANF. However some states with active midwives are working on the name change to be more inclusive of midwives. I can assure youthe ANF and Jill Iliffe are taking notice of midwives. Collectively we are strong and we can do anything in a way that respects all views. Can I urge you to get involved. Cheers Barb -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Lisa BarrettSent: Wednesday, 6 September 2006 12:36 PMTo: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.auSubject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Hang on personalising this debate is very important to me if I have to sign up. Maybe that's the problem not personal enough!! My SAIMA South Australian Independent Midwives Association. Should surely have received some information affiliated to the college or not. Having Insurance doesn't hinge on belonging to the College of Midwives. I was at the same day as Tania, Not a mention of any Insurance issues then. I don't think for one minute I have confusion. I want to feel to be important enough to be in the loop and wanted opinion from others around Australia of what they actually thought about this not just the party line. what I have to say is as important as everyone else just because I want to be cautious doesn't mean I should shut up surely. I know there are people working hard out there to benefit the midwifery community but please don't belittle my opinion or that of My SAIMA. Doesn't anyone else think that getting your woman to pay them and then they take what is required and give you the rest may be an issue. Can we all start charging 30dollars and will that cover our insurance tax, commission etc. What if they are not happy with something and won't pay up. They could start making policies and if we don't follow what they think is correct procedure they don't pay up. Has this been covered with the company? Thanks everyone Lisa - Original Message - From: B G To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2006 8:57 AM Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Lisa, Personalising debate is not wholesome. Its like NIMBY debates! An email went out via ACM update that people can subscribe to about PI to express an interest to the CEO at that stage. This was then relayed onto ozmidwifery. I do not think it has progressed beyond an _expression_ of interest from midwives to the college. I rely on the elected members from my state branchof the College to act on everyones best interest. Some things especially business related do have some confidential discussions. One thing the College is particularly keen to do is to ensure safe practice and safe care hence progression of the Midwifery Practice Review nationally. Your SAIMA are they affiliated to the College or participate in the College activities because this is probably where your confusion is coming from hearing things as you said 3rd hand? The college update is very informative and keeps you in the loop. Barb
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Message
Well Barb thanks for that. I can assure you
that the women I "claim to care for" are very well looked after and I resent the
inference made with that remark. I am in fact a member of my professional
body the RCM and a member of the ANF and a member of the ARM(Association of
Radical Midwives) I do not think or feel like I am an Island. I have been a
midwife for 20 years and am well aware of my accountability. Respecting all
views is surely that ALL views. All I am trying to get over is a full
debate of what we are going to get with the insurance that is on
offer. I not expect to benefit or be rewarded by any wins or pay
rises negotiated on my behalf. I don't want an insurance offer put on the
table on my behalf that I may not want but if agreed to I will be obliged to
take or marginalise myself further. I'm sure that you can understand that.
That's why a healthy discussion now is invaluable to us all. and mud slinging
not productive.
Lisa
- Original Message -
From:
B
G
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
Sent: Thursday, September 07, 2006 10:36
AM
Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI
Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Lisa,
There is a word that describes those who are not members of an
organisation/collective that declines to financially contribute to collective
funds or provide input or energies yet expect to benefit or be rewarded
bythe wins such as pay risesnegotiated by a collective group such
as by a union. I will not say the word in such polite company but others will
know a festering sore heals ever so slowly when constantly rubbed. I get
rubbed by this all the time!
However I
would suggest Lisa you seriously consider why
membership to your professional college would
benefit you and especially to the woman you claim to 'care' for. We cannot
take a Robinson Crusoe view and think midwives are on their own island when we
have so many financial, political, professional, ethical and various codes of
practice we are all expected to be accountable to.
At
the present time the College does not have the resources or funds to be able
to provide legal or financial officers. They leave the industrial framework
many midwives work in to the various unions in each state,
howeverunfortunately named, the ANF. However some states with active
midwives are working on the name change to be more inclusive of midwives. I
can assure youthe ANF and Jill Iliffe are taking notice of
midwives.
Collectively we are strong and we can do anything
in a way that respects all views. Can I urge you to get
involved.
Cheers Barb
-Original Message-From:
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
[mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Lisa
BarrettSent: Wednesday, 6 September 2006 12:36 PMTo:
ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.auSubject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI
Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Hang on personalising this debate is very
important to me if I have to sign up. Maybe that's the problem not
personal enough!!
My SAIMA South Australian Independent Midwives
Association. Should surely have received some information affiliated to the
college or not. Having Insurance doesn't hinge on belonging to the
College of Midwives. I was at the same day as Tania, Not a mention of
any Insurance issues then.
I don't think for one minute I have
confusion. I want to feel to be important enough to be in the loop and
wanted opinion from others around Australia of what they actually thought
about this not just the party line. what I have to say is as important as
everyone else just because I want to be cautious doesn't mean I should shut
up surely.
I know there are people working hard out there
to benefit the midwifery community but please don't belittle my opinion or
that of My SAIMA.
Doesn't anyone else think that getting your
woman to pay them and then they take what is required and give you the rest
may be an issue. Can we all start charging 30dollars and will that
cover our insurance tax, commission etc. What if they are not happy with
something and won't pay up. They could start making policies and if we
don't follow what they think is correct procedure they don't pay up. Has
this been covered with the company?
Thanks everyone
Lisa
- Original Message -
From:
B
G
To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au
Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2006
8:57 AM
Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI
Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Lisa,
Personalising debate is not wholesome. Its like NIMBY
debates!
An email went out via ACM update that people can subscribe to about
PI to express a
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Hi there Jo, For the homebirth movement to move forward here we need to dispel the fear that women have surrounding birth, no amount of insurance can do that. I don't think that because they are the only company offering insurance at the moment that is the main consideration at all. Would you buy rotten fruit if it was all that was on offer ( not comparing rotten fruit with the offer at all you understand). At the uni of SA student's can attend homebirths in fact I had a birth this week with a student attending. How is it that they are able to and others eg in South Aus Flinders Uni can't. Maybe it has more to do with politics of birth than insurance. I am doing my best along with other independent's in this state to raise the profile of birth, insurance is not the only way to do this. I do get fed up when on the odd occasion I have been with a woman birthing at the hospital at the attitude of some (by no means all) but catching the baby isn't the be all and end all of my job. Getting the woman the birth she desires is way more important and if that means advocating from the side line I swallow my pride and get on with it. All that said I would love as much as everyone else to have insurance as a rod to help me. But it has to be right and open discussion is really important even before we blindly sign up to anything. Thanks for your input Lisa - Original Message - From: jo To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 10:48 AM Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Hi all, Although not a midwife yet I attended the Sydney meeting with members of ASIM as an HBA rep. The offer to me sounded good in that you are only paying insurance for the actual births you attend. Its not just a 1 off fee. Therefore if you are a hosp mw whod like to do a few hbs a year you only pay insurance for those few you attend and if you are a full time city based hb midwife attended 30 births a year thats what you pay for. The other issue to consider is that this is the only company who are willing to offer insurance to mws, there has been a lot of work done on this issue over the past 5 years and no other insurance company has been willing to come to the party. In order for homebirth to move fwd both for mws and women in Aus we need to secure insurance then perhaps the student mws may get rights to accompany IPMs to hbs, hb mws may get rights in hosp to continue their care of the woman should a transfer become necessary, Publicly Funded hb may become a real option for women and it can only be a positive step in terms of raising the profile of IPMs. I suggest any mw who would like to raise the profile of the profession and help to make hb a real choice for Australian women register their interest and once the 200 are on a list discussions can begin on how it will all work. Warm regards Jo Hunter National Convenor HBA HAS Coordinator Innate Birth CBE and doula From: owner-ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au [mailto:owner-ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au] On Behalf Of Lisa BarrettSent: Tuesday, 5 September 2006 8:25 AMTo: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.auSubject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Hi Everyone, I'm interested to know everyone's thoughts on the PI. I work solely as an independent and I must be honest I don't think this offer is great. We shouldn't rush into anything just because we think PI gives us credibility. I haven't really seen any huge discussion on this anywhere. Has there been a gathering of Independent's that I missed to go into detail on this offer or even what we want and expect from our insurance? We don't want to shoot ourselves in the foot yet again in our eagerness to portray ourselves as professionals. Lisa Barrett - Original Message - From: Andrea Bilcliff To: Ozmidwifery Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 6:48 PM Subject: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed FYI... - Original Message - From: Robyn Thompson Please forward this on to as many midwives as possible. It would be great if more colleagues could contact Dr Barb Vernon, Executive Officer, ACMI as soon as possible to add your names to the list for PI Insurance. We need 200 before we can start the process, so far there are 90. Lets get the PI rolling for the greater good of our profession Warm regards, Robyn [EMAIL PROTECTED]
RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Just wanted to weigh in on this discussion I agree Lisa, there is so much fear and distrust of birth, and the processes that make it safe, that I dont think insurance will make an ounce of difference per se, to the culture surrounding birth in this country. Thats not to say that it isnt a positive step, and that we all shouldnt be appreciative of the exhaustive efforts of those such as Barb Vernon, Joy Johnston and all the others who have worked hard to get this offer to the table. I also know that there are many IPMs out there who whilst agreeing that of course we should have fair and affordable access to insurance, for one reason or another would choose not to have it. Whether thats wise, or professional is another debate altogether, and I think that the reasons for wanting or not wanting to take up the offer of insurance would be equally as diverse as the opinions on any topic we have discussed on this list. I keep thinking back to the first midwifery conference I went to in New Zealand, and whilst Im aware that their system is not perfect by any means, it does have a few wonderful innovations such as no fault liabilitybut I digressand I remember Karen Guilliland speaking passionately about how the impetus for change in the system over there came from a core group of dedicated and passionate midwives, in conjunction with the women of New Zealand, who demanded something better. How do we get around the fact that we have a culture and generations of women here who believe that they are getting the best already, and that anything less than a private Ob in a private hospital is substandard, and more importantly, not as safe? We have so much work to do to raise the profile of midwifery care, and to make it something that all women demand, and feel that they are deserving of. Starting with the women who are of birthing age now is too late, I fear. They are already heavily indoctrinated to think of birth as intrinsically dangerous, and as something that requires specialist care, especially if you can afford it. I dont know how many of my well meaning friends looked forlornly at me when we talked about choosing a midwife and planning a homebirth, and asked sadly why we had let our private health insurance lapse. They actually felt sorry for me! I found it incredulous to think that not one of my friends, all educated women, some already mothers themselves, saw any value in having a known midwife attend them for their labour and birth, let alone for all the wonderful ante and post natal care. They just didnt get why that was important to me. So yes, I think we need to start with programmes in schools and preschools, normalizing birth, using the word midwife, birth, alongside the words joy, power, satisfaction and safety. We need to have the idea of having your own midwife, regardless of where you choose to birth, in every little persons mind, as the normal thing to do. How we do that, I dont know. But I do think its worth us being open to looking at an insurance offer, given that its the first one weve had any proximity to in 5 years now, keeping in mind that it wont be the answer to everything Sorry for the rant, but wanted to have some input while it was still in my fuzzy head (this cold just wont go away) Tania x From: owner-ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au [mailto:owner-ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au] On Behalf Of Lisa Barrett Sent: Tuesday, 5 September 2006 3:30 PM To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Hi there Jo, For the homebirth movement to move forward here we need to dispel the fear that women have surrounding birth, no amount of insurance can do that. I don't think that because they are the only company offering insurance at the moment that is the main consideration at all. Would you buy rotten fruit if it was all that was on offer ( not comparing rotten fruit with the offer at all you understand). At the uni of SA student's can attend homebirths in fact I had a birth this week with a student attending. How is it that they are able to and others eg in South Aus Flinders Uni can't. Maybe it has more to do with politics of birth than insurance. I am doing my best along with other independent's in this state to raise the profile of birth, insurance is not the only way to do this. I do get fed up when on the odd occasion I have been with a woman birthing at the hospital at the attitude of some (by no means all) but catching the baby isn't the be all and end all of my job. Getting the woman the birth she desires is way more important and if that means advocating from the side line I swallow my pride and get on with it. All that said I would love as much as everyone else to have insurance as a rod to help me. But it has to be right and open discussion is really important even before we blindly sign up to anything
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
My feeelings on it are divided as I dont necessarily want CA to be doing my invoicing of clients for a number of reasons one of which is confidentiality. but the deal itself sounds reasonable to me to pay on a per case basis. I would be happy with a per case fee as I feel this would be fair for everyone regardless of what they charge. I am used to working without it now and have got over the uneasiness of it but am happy not to own anything and therefore my risk is low. Not everyone has this luxury. The NBV are not invoking their right in insisting we have insurance I feel because none is available but I think this will change if it is in whatever form. What I understand is that they are going to charge a 5-6 % administration fee and 1-2% insurance fee and no matter which way you look at it this equates in my book to 7-8% of what I charge for insurance. What I dont get is how this works when everyone charges their own fees. This would mean that say Robyn Thompson will be paying more per client for her insurance than I will because she charges more and I don't see how they will police this. What if midwives provide their services for free how does this work or they could charge a nominal fee say$10 and only pay 80c insurance and still be covered. I wanted to go to the meeting today but for logistical reasons couldn't so am waiting to here from the midwives who do. From what I can gather they need 200 names for CA to start negotiations but I dont think you will get midwives who only work in hospital to be interested even though I think they should be and I dont think there are 200 ind practicing midwives in Australia. I'd love to be proved wrong.AndreaOn 05/09/2006, at 3:47 PM, Lisa Barrett wrote:Hi Andrea, I have already emailed Barb Vernon but have not received a reply at all. I homebirthed in Britain for 14 years before coming here and I must say that although independent's have no insurance at the moment there it doesn't prevent or hinder the homebirth movement fear does that way more successfully than lack of insurance.. The biggest horror is that it leaves these midwives as us vulnerable to complaints not so much from clients but other professionals. I was looking for a discussion on how it actually works . I have read what's available but wanted to know what others think in more detail. Here seems a great place to discuss it. Lisa- Original Message -From: Andrea QuanchiTo: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.auSent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 8:47 AMSubject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives neededLisaNothing is set in concrete yet but we need 200 names to be able to move forward. There is a meeting today in Melbourne and have been other meetings around the country. I suggest you ring Barb Vernon at ACMI and she can give you the relevant info for your stateAndreaOn 05/09/2006, at 8:24 AM, Lisa Barrett wrote:
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
I'm glad you mentioned this Andrea because it's just what I was thinking. SA Midwives don't command the prices that they charge in other states. Will the payments be uniform or income related and how does that transfer to the amount of cover provided. I also understand that they will pay the tax on your income. I'm certainly not going to let a company handle my money take a cut pay tax and then give me what's left. Professional indemnity should be available through our professional body to ALL midwives not just homebirthing midwives and should be part and parcel of being a member. That's what we should be working towards. Then there wouldn't be a struggle for a professional body it would be a necessity. That's also the way to get birth on the agenda and recognised around the country with a high profile midwifery group bursting at the seams with the country's midwives. Maybe the Royal college could accept the insurance on behalf of it's members and then negotiate it into something we can actually use. Lisa. - Original Message - From: Andrea Quanchi To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 5:06 PM Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed My feeelings on it are divided as I dont necessarily want CA to be doing my invoicing of clients for a number of reasons one of which is confidentiality. but the deal itself sounds reasonable to me to pay on a per case basis. I would be happy with a per case fee as I feel this would be fair for everyone regardless of what they charge. I am used to working without it now and have got over the uneasiness of it but am happy not to own anything and therefore my risk is low. Not everyone has this luxury. The NBV are not invoking their right in insisting we have insurance I feel because none is available but I think this will change if it is in whatever form. What I understand is that they are going to charge a 5-6 % administration fee and 1-2% insurance fee and no matter which way you look at it this equates in my book to 7-8% of what I charge for insurance. What I dont get is how this works when everyone charges their own fees. This would mean that say Robyn Thompson will be paying more per client for her insurance than I will because she charges more and I don't see how they will police this. What if midwives provide their services for free how does this work or they could charge a nominal fee say$10 and only pay 80c insurance and still be covered. I wanted to go to the meeting today but for logistical reasons couldn't so am waiting to here from the midwives who do. From what I can gather they need 200 names for CA to start negotiations but I dont think you will get midwives who only work in hospital to be interested even though I think they should be and I dont think there are 200 ind practicing midwives in Australia. I'd love to be proved wrong. Andrea On 05/09/2006, at 3:47 PM, Lisa Barrett wrote: Hi Andrea, I have already emailed Barb Vernon but have not received a reply at all. I homebirthed in Britain for 14 years before coming here and I must say that although independent's have no insurance at the moment there it doesn't prevent or hinder the homebirth movement fear does that way more successfully than lack of insurance.. The biggest horror is that it leaves these midwives as us vulnerable to complaints not so much from clients but other professionals. I was looking for a discussion on how it actually works . I have read what's available but wanted to know what others think in more detail. Here seems a great place to discuss it. Lisa - Original Message - From: Andrea Quanchi To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 8:47 AM Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Lisa Nothing is set in concrete yet but we need 200 names to be able to move forward. There is a meeting today in Melbourne and have been other meetings around the country. I suggest you ring Barb Vernon at ACMI and she can give you the relevant info for your state Andrea On 05/09/2006, at 8:24 AM, Lisa Barrett wrote:
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Dear Lisa and All I agree Lisa we need to dispel fear around HB but to do that it needs to be accessible. Your experience of BMid students attending HB is a 1 off. I dont believe any other BMid course enable students to work with IPMs doing HB. They also have trouble finding continuity models (and yes WC in Adelaide is again different!). But what I want to respond to is the idea that insurance is just for midwives. What about women? I have had 6 children at home and I have NO FEAR!!! 2 with insurance and 4 without. I understand the legal issues and I TAKE RESPONSIBILITY and would be very unlikely to sue, but this is not the point. I do however believe that HB women must have the same rights as those accessing GPs and Obs. Insurance is seen as a consumer safety mechanism just as it is seen as a professional protection for midwives. This policy to me is very worthwhile as it allows for coverage on a per birth basis. It will enable many more midwives wanting to dip their toe in to private practice that chance. It has the capacity to transform maternity services. We can use the flexibility of this policy (and the business arrangements they offer) to recruit midwives who are currently reluctant to step outside of the system. Private midwifery could actually be a mainstream option with women choosing where they give birth. With PI ,midwives could be granted admitting rights and could therefore offer the marketplace a service in the home or hospital. I have spent 6.5 years advocating for women and midwives and 5 fighting for PI insurance. I can safely say that politically midwives will get nowhere without PI. With 200 midwives we can sell 1-2-1 midwifery further than HB (although HB is my passion!!). Yesterday Manchester Unity refused to pay for a homebirth (even though they offer midwifery rebates) citing a lack of PI as the reason. HBA are also reconsidering and MBF has ceased paying out for HBs for the same reason. I have never had private health insurance and never will, but this is not about the few, again this is about reaching many more women. Private Health is well supported by the Fed Gov and it is a way to reach many more women. Fear can not be easily dispelled by something that is so poorly supported (ie by public or private funding). With an influx of private midwifery there is a much better chance that Medicare will flow on to midwives in their own right (rather than the current idea re Medicare item number 16400 that requires Drs overseeing midwives). Lisa you cannot liken the UK to here. Although I think team midwifery for homebirth is the pits, women in the UK have a legislative right to a public funded homebirth, even saying that in Australia would be considered reasonably outrageous. Unlike the UK, Independent midwifery is the only option for the vast majority of Aust women wanting a HB. Barb Vernon is one very busy person who is pushed and pulled in many directions but like us she is working hard to achieve this. She is recording every e-mail etc received in the hope we get to 200 soon. I hope you appreciate the benefits of this policy in both per birth coverage and business structure; and whilst I acknowledge some IPMs with established practices may have preferred that this was not a requirement I hope that they too can think with a world view as we consumers are. In solidarity Justine Caines Homebirth Australia Maternity Coalition For the homebirth movement to move forward here we need to dispel the fear that women have surrounding birth, no amount of insurance can do that. I don't think that because they are the only company offering insurance at the moment that is the main consideration at all. Would you buy rotten fruit if it was all that was on offer ( not comparing rotten fruit with the offer at all you understand). At the uni of SA student's can attend homebirths in fact I had a birth this week with a student attending. How is it that they are able to and others eg in South Aus Flinders Uni can't. Maybe it has more to do with politics of birth than insurance. I am doing my best along with other independent's in this state to raise the profile of birth, insurance is not the only way to do this. I do get fed up when on the odd occasion I have been with a woman birthing at the hospital at the attitude of some (by no means all) but catching the baby isn't the be all and end all of my job. Getting the woman the birth she desires is way more important and if that means advocating from the side line I swallow my pride and get on with it. All that said I would love as much as everyone else to have insurance as a rod to help me. But it has to be right and open discussion is really important even before we blindly sign up to anything. Thanks for your input Lisa
RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Andrea saidI dont think you will get midwives who only work in hospital to be interested even though I think they should be I think this is a key quote that also deserves some discussionwhilst on one hand we are all fighting for recognition as a profession separate to nursing, and we want to be seen as a united front to further the campaign for improving maternity services throughout Australia, on the other hand we are pursuing an insurance offer that yet again divides us as a profession. Nicky Leap saida midwife is a midwife is a midwife??? I feel like this quest for insurance that is specific to IPMs could be seen by midwives, the AMA, politicians, and most importantly women, as a divisive move, and I dont think ultimately it can benefit us in our quest to improve the public persona of the midwife. I really want to have access to insurance, not be forced into having it. I want to be able to purchase insurance that will cover me for any activities I take in the name of midwifery, in or out of the hospital setting, where I am being paid a wage, or where I am donating my time. In my wildest dreams Id like to think that every midwife working anywhere as a midwife would consider it a string to his or her professional bow to be insured as well as registered. Thats something that they have done in NZ, attach the insurance to the membership of the professional body, the NZCOM, and membership of the body is a necessary step to obtaining registration as a midwife. That way, all midwives are members of the professional body, and all midwives are insured. I know thats a simplistic way of looking at it, but it really worries me that we are getting caught up in something that perpetuates an us and them attitude that has already gone on for too long Tania -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/437 - Release Date: 4/09/2006 -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/437 - Release Date: 4/09/2006
RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Message Justine you have so eloquently state the bleeding obvious. I am one hospital midwife who hopes and prays this insurance comes available. I plan to provide home care for birthing women but ethically and morally I will not do so until I know PI is there. To be truly recognised as a profession one must provide PI for clients. Even hubby has PI when he is Landscaping in case he takes out the SE telecommunications cable with one bobcat- don't laugh this did happen about 6 months ago to another operator. He is now financially ruined as businesses sued for loss of services! Barb -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Justine CainesSent: Tuesday, 5 September 2006 7:19 PMTo: OzMid ListSubject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Dear Lisa and AllI agree Lisa we need to dispel fear around HB but to do that it needs to be accessible.Your experience of BMid students attending HB is a 1 off. I dont believe any other BMid course enable students to work with IPMs doing HB.They also have trouble finding continuity models (and yes WC in Adelaide is again different!).But what I want to respond to is the idea that insurance is just for midwives. What about women? I have had 6 children at home and I have NO FEAR!!! 2 with insurance and 4 without. I understand the legal issues and I TAKE RESPONSIBILITY and would be very unlikely to sue, but this is not the point. I do however believe that HB women must have the same rights as those accessing GPs and Obs. Insurance is seen as a consumer safety mechanism just as it is seen as a professional protection for midwives.This policy to me is very worthwhile as it allows for coverage on a per birth basis. It will enable many more midwives wanting to dip their toe in to private practice that chance. It has the capacity to transform maternity services. We can use the flexibility of this policy (and the business arrangements they offer) to recruit midwives who are currently reluctant to step outside of the system. Private midwifery could actually be a mainstream option with women choosing where they give birth. With PI ,midwives could be granted admitting rights and could therefore offer the marketplace a service in the home or hospital.I have spent 6.5 years advocating for women and midwives and 5 fighting for PI insurance. I can safely say that politically midwives will get nowhere without PI.With 200 midwives we can sell 1-2-1 midwifery further than HB (although HB is my passion!!).Yesterday Manchester Unity refused to pay for a homebirth (even though they offer midwifery rebates) citing a lack of PI as the reason.HBA are also reconsidering and MBF has ceased paying out for HBs for the same reason.I have never had private health insurance and never will, but this is not about the few, again this is about reaching many more women. Private Health is well supported by the Fed Gov and it is a way to reach many more women. Fear can not be easily dispelled by something that is so poorly supported (ie by public or private funding).With an influx of private midwifery there is a much better chance that Medicare will flow on to midwives in their own right (rather than the current idea re Medicare item number 16400 that requires Drs overseeing midwives).Lisa you cannot liken the UK to here. Although I think team midwifery for homebirth is the pits, women in the UK have a legislative right to a public funded homebirth, even saying that in Australia would be considered reasonably outrageous. Unlike the UK, Independent midwifery is the only option for the vast majority of Aust women wanting a HB.Barb Vernon is one very busy person who is pushed and pulled in many directions but like us she is working hard to achieve this. She is recording every e-mail etc received in the hope we get to 200 soon.I hope you appreciate the benefits of this policy in both per birth coverage and business structure; and whilst I acknowledge some IPMs with established practices may have preferred that this was not a requirement I hope that they too can think with a world view as we consumers are.In solidarityJustine Caines Homebirth AustraliaMaternity CoalitionFor the homebirth movement to move forward here we need to dispel the fear that women have surrounding birth, no amount of insurance can do that.I don't think that because they are the only company offering insurance at the moment that is the main consideration at all. Would you buy rotten fruit if it was all that was on offer ( not comparing rotten fruit with the offer at all you understand).At the uni of SA student's can attend homebirths
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
I agree and disagree, Tania.I believe there IS an us and them. I am a hospital based Midwife... I see 'them' homebirth based Midwives and look up to and admire them for their experience and expertise in home birth. I look at the hospital based Midwives I work with and also admire their experience and expertise, but most know nothing about homebirth, and wouldn't ever practice in that way. As a hospital based Midwife, I am insured by the hospital, and by the ANF. Those homebirth Midwives don't have an 'overseer' and don't need one, so they, too, need insurance. They are practitioners in their own right, and refer on to Doctors if needs be. In the hospital we are all a multidisciplinary team working to look after all of the women.That's why I see there is an us and them. Them need insurance, us already have it. :)JoOn 05/09/2006, at 5:27 PM, Tania Smallwood wrote:Andrea said…“I dont think you will get midwives who only work in hospital to be interested even though I think they should be” I think this is a key quote that also deserves some discussion…whilst on one hand we are all fighting for recognition as a profession separate to nursing, and we want to be seen as a united front to further the campaign for improving maternity services throughout Australia, on the other hand we are pursuing an insurance offer that yet again divides us as a profession. Nicky Leap said…a midwife is a midwife is a midwife…??? I feel like this quest for insurance that is specific to IPM’s could be seen by midwives, the AMA, politicians, and most importantly women, as a divisive move, and I don’t think ultimately it can benefit us in our quest to improve the public persona of the midwife. I really want to have access to insurance, not be forced into having it. I want to be able to purchase insurance that will cover me for any activities I take in the name of midwifery, in or out of the hospital setting, where I am being paid a wage, or where I am donating my time. In my wildest dreams I’d like to think that every midwife working anywhere as a midwife would consider it a string to his or her professional bow to be insured as well as registered. That’s something that they have done in NZ, attach the insurance to the membership of the professional body, the NZCOM, and membership of the body is a necessary step to obtaining registration as a midwife. That way, all midwives are members of the professional body, and all midwives are insured. I know that’s a simplistic way of looking at it, but it really worries me that we are getting caught up in something that perpetuates an us and them attitude that has already gone on for too long… Tania --No virus found in this incoming message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/437 - Release Date: 4/09/2006--No virus found in this outgoing message.Checked by AVG Free Edition.Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/437 - Release Date: 4/09/2006
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
I'm certainly not trying to shoot any offer of insurance down. I wanted discussion and opinion because I feel out of the loop. I am a member of the SAIMA but we have received nothing not even a note to say anything is on the table , it's all hear say and 3rd hand. As I said before I only practice independently and as It is my whole life, I don't do a bit on the side so to speak I wonder why nobody has bothered to inform the SAIMA what's happening, if there's a meeting we can attend etc etc. This is not a closed shop for whoever to negotiate my life without even my knowledge. If insurance is taken up I will be expected to get it. All You lovely women who are at the moment not homebirthing because there is no insurance your fine. I Homebirth every day of my life, I have recently done twins at home and have a very busy practice. you can all get on your high horse about this but it directly affects ME not you so I want to know what is going on before I sign on the dotted line. Justine, I appreciate that the women have the right to request cover, I don't not want insurance I just don't want any old thing and I feel uncomfortable about the way it would work. This open discussion is great. It's the best way to get the best deal.. I know that people have worked tirelessly on this but I work tirelessly birthing women at home so surely my opinion counts for something. Lisa - Original Message - From: Shaughn Leach To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 9:13 PM Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed I am a recently qualified midwife (July) and I have put my name down with ACMI as I understood this to be only an _expression_ of interest at this stage. I dont intend to work as an independent midwife however it seemed to me that there were other midwives who would appreciate being able to access this type of insurance. For a few years I did not hold professional indemnity insurance in my private practice as a Lactation Consultant and I personally found the situation very stressful (fearful!!). Eventually I found insurance with a company that provides PI insurance for complementary practitioners (AON Brokers) at a reasonable cost. As I continue to pay for this insurance despite working mostly in a hospital setting at present, I can appreciate the benefits of paying per case! Shaughn Leach
RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Message Lisa, Personalising debate is not wholesome. Its like NIMBY debates! An email went out via ACM update that people can subscribe to about PI to express an interest to the CEO at that stage. This was then relayed onto ozmidwifery. I do not think it has progressed beyond an _expression_ of interest from midwives to the college. I rely on the elected members from my state branchof the College to act on everyones best interest. Some things especially business related do have some confidential discussions. One thing the College is particularly keen to do is to ensure safe practice and safe care hence progression of the Midwifery Practice Review nationally. Your SAIMA are they affiliated to the College or participate in the College activities because this is probably where your confusion is coming from hearing things as you said 3rd hand? The college update is very informative and keeps you in the loop. Barb -Original Message-From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Lisa BarrettSent: Wednesday, 6 September 2006 8:53 AMTo: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.auSubject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed I'm certainly not trying to shoot any offer of insurance down. I wanted discussion and opinion because I feel out of the loop. I am a member of the SAIMA but we have received nothing not even a note to say anything is on the table , it's all hear say and 3rd hand. As I said before I only practice independently and as It is my whole life, I don't do a bit on the side so to speak I wonder why nobody has bothered to inform the SAIMA what's happening, if there's a meeting we can attend etc etc. This is not a closed shop for whoever to negotiate my life without even my knowledge. If insurance is taken up I will be expected to get it. All You lovely women who are at the moment not homebirthing because there is no insurance your fine. I Homebirth every day of my life, I have recently done twins at home and have a very busy practice. you can all get on your high horse about this but it directly affects ME not you so I want to know what is going on before I sign on the dotted line. Justine, I appreciate that the women have the right to request cover, I don't not want insurance I just don't want any old thing and I feel uncomfortable about the way it would work. This open discussion is great. It's the best way to get the best deal.. I know that people have worked tirelessly on this but I work tirelessly birthing women at home so surely my opinion counts for something. Lisa - Original Message - From: Shaughn Leach To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 9:13 PM Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed I am a recently qualified midwife (July) and I have put my name down with ACMI as I understood this to be only an _expression_ of interest at this stage. I dont intend to work as an independent midwife however it seemed to me that there were other midwives who would appreciate being able to access this type of insurance. For a few years I did not hold professional indemnity insurance in my private practice as a Lactation Consultant and I personally found the situation very stressful (fearful!!). Eventually I found insurance with a company that provides PI insurance for complementary practitioners (AON Brokers) at a reasonable cost. As I continue to pay for this insurance despite working mostly in a hospital setting at present, I can appreciate the benefits of paying per case! Shaughn Leach
RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
My advice from one lawyer is not to have to sets of insurers as if you get sued then you have two insurance companies fighting about who is responsible which makes the whole issue much bigger than if only one, those midwives who are employed are covered by their employer. Hospital employed midwives may need insurance to help protect their professional reputation but it could be detrimental to them to have this insurance as well for their work done for their employers. Christine -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]On Behalf Of Tania Smallwood Sent: 05 September 2006 18:57 To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Andrea said…“I dont think you will get midwives who only work in hospital to be interested even though I think they should be” I think this is a key quote that also deserves some discussion…whilst on one hand we are all fighting for recognition as a profession separate to nursing, and we want to be seen as a united front to further the campaign for improving maternity services throughout Australia, on the other hand we are pursuing an insurance offer that yet again divides us as a profession. Nicky Leap said…a midwife is a midwife is a midwife…??? I feel like this quest for insurance that is specific to IPM’s could be seen by midwives, the AMA, politicians, and most importantly women, as a divisive move, and I don’t think ultimately it can benefit us in our quest to improve the public persona of the midwife. I really want to have access to insurance, not be forced into having it. I want to be able to purchase insurance that will cover me for any activities I take in the name of midwifery, in or out of the hospital setting, where I am being paid a wage, or where I am donating my time. In my wildest dreams I’d like to think that every midwife working anywhere as a midwife would consider it a string to his or her professional bow to be insured as well as registered. That’s something that they have done in NZ, attach the insurance to the membership of the professional body, the NZCOM, and membership of the body is a necessary step to obtaining registration as a midwife. That way, all midwives are members of the professional body, and all midwives are insured. I know that’s a simplistic way of looking at it, but it really worries me that we are getting caught up in something that perpetuates an us and them attitude that has already gone on for too long… Tania -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/437 - Release Date: 4/09/2006 -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/437 - Release Date: 4/09/2006
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
I believe that Anne O'Connor from Contracting Advantage will be visiting most states to discuss the offer and answer any questions midwives may have. You can contact her at: [EMAIL PROTECTED] to find out when she is coming to your state. If shehas not planned to, I'm sure she would if there are enough interested midwives willing to attend. Andrea Bilcliff - Original Message - From: Lisa Barrett ...I'm certainly not trying to shoot any offer of insurance down. I wanted discussion and opinion because I feel out of the loop. I am a member of the SAIMA but we have received nothing not even a note to say anything is on the table , it's all hear say and 3rd hand...
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Actually I had a Direct Entry Mid Student from Monash Uni in Frankston last year attend homebirths with me. Her last birth required for her required number of 'attended births' was a home birth. With kind regardsBrenda Manning www.themidwife.com.au - Original Message - From: Justine Caines To: OzMid List Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 7:19 PM Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Dear Lisa and AllI agree Lisa we need to dispel fear around HB but to do that it needs to be accessible.Your experience of BMid students attending HB is a 1 off. I dont believe any other BMid course enable students to work with IPMs doing HB.They also have trouble finding continuity models (and yes WC in Adelaide is again different!).But what I want to respond to is the idea that insurance is just for midwives. What about women? I have had 6 children at home and I have NO FEAR!!! 2 with insurance and 4 without. I understand the legal issues and I TAKE RESPONSIBILITY and would be very unlikely to sue, but this is not the point. I do however believe that HB women must have the same rights as those accessing GPs and Obs. Insurance is seen as a consumer safety mechanism just as it is seen as a professional protection for midwives.This policy to me is very worthwhile as it allows for coverage on a per birth basis. It will enable many more midwives wanting to dip their toe in to private practice that chance. It has the capacity to transform maternity services. We can use the flexibility of this policy (and the business arrangements they offer) to recruit midwives who are currently reluctant to step outside of the system. Private midwifery could actually be a mainstream option with women choosing where they give birth. With PI ,midwives could be granted admitting rights and could therefore offer the marketplace a service in the home or hospital.I have spent 6.5 years advocating for women and midwives and 5 fighting for PI insurance. I can safely say that politically midwives will get nowhere without PI.With 200 midwives we can sell 1-2-1 midwifery further than HB (although HB is my passion!!).Yesterday Manchester Unity refused to pay for a homebirth (even though they offer midwifery rebates) citing a lack of PI as the reason.HBA are also reconsidering and MBF has ceased paying out for HBs for the same reason.I have never had private health insurance and never will, but this is not about the few, again this is about reaching many more women. Private Health is well supported by the Fed Gov and it is a way to reach many more women. Fear can not be easily dispelled by something that is so poorly supported (ie by public or private funding).With an influx of private midwifery there is a much better chance that Medicare will flow on to midwives in their own right (rather than the current idea re Medicare item number 16400 that requires Drs overseeing midwives).Lisa you cannot liken the UK to here. Although I think team midwifery for homebirth is the pits, women in the UK have a legislative right to a public funded homebirth, even saying that in Australia would be considered reasonably outrageous. Unlike the UK, Independent midwifery is the only option for the vast majority of Aust women wanting a HB.Barb Vernon is one very busy person who is pushed and pulled in many directions but like us she is working hard to achieve this. She is recording every e-mail etc received in the hope we get to 200 soon.I hope you appreciate the benefits of this policy in both per birth coverage and business structure; and whilst I acknowledge some IPMs with established practices may have preferred that this was not a requirement I hope that they too can think with a world view as we consumers are.In solidarityJustine Caines Homebirth AustraliaMaternity CoalitionFor the homebirth movement to move forward here we need to dispel the fear that women have surrounding birth, no amount of insurance can do that.I don't think that because they are the only company offering insurance at the moment that is the main consideration at all. Would you buy rotten fruit if it was all that was on offer ( not comparing rotten fruit with the offer at all you understand).At the uni of SA student's can attend homebirths in fact I had a birth this week with a student attending. How is it that they are able to and others eg in South Aus Flinders Uni can't. Maybe it has more to do with politics of birth than insurance.I am doing my best along with other independent's in this state to raise the profile
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Message My understanding of the offer is quite basic and somewill know much more than me and are better able to articulate it, but I'll give it a shot... Anne O'Connor was very helpful and willing to answer all our questions at the meeting yesterday. What she couldn't, she was going to take back with her to find out for us. I'm sure if you contacted her she would be willing to answerany questions. CA provide this service for all kinds of self-employed workers.The management fee covers as much or as little book-keeping as we desire. If we want them to take out super payments, child support payments, whatever, they will. If we don't, they wont. If we want them to do BAS statements etc, this isalso included in the fee. If we want to continue doing our own book-keeping, this is fine also. Salary packaging was alsomentioned for the hospital employed midwives - they will do this too. They are aware that different midwives will charge different amounts for their services (as do other self-employed professionals). Some are paid in cash, some up-front, some in instalments, some after the birth. They have no interest in dictating what our charges or practice should be. Theirconcern is that we are registered as midwives. They are aware of the ACMI guidelines being just that...guidelines. The non-negotiable aspects, as I understand it, are: -the depositing of funds into their account when an invoice is paid (we get the final payment into our account the following day) -the management fee of 5% -the PII Public Liability fee of approx. 1% -the 20% flat tax rate (this isa minimum Govt requirement - you may pay more if you wish, orclaim it back at the end of year if too much is paid) It is extremelyhard to keep everyone informed as not all midwives are members of the various email discussion groups, ACMI, ASIMor even theirlocal groups such as MIPP SAIMA. I know there are independently practising midwives herein Vic who are not MIPP members. They have that choice but how do we get the message out to them? For now, it wouldbe of benefit if all midwives interested in keeping up-to-date withthe insurance offers joined the midwives insurance list http://au.groups.yahoo.com/group/Midwives_Insurance/ Hope this helps : ) Andrea Bilcliff
RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Message Thanks for that Andrea, just on that point, I think we all need to be mindful that there are probably many midwives who are not online AT ALL. I know of a few here in SA, who rely on other means of keeping updated with things, and one of them had no idea about any of this until I mentioned it to her. Im not sure what the answer is, the only body we are all a member of or have contact with in common is the Nurses Board (what an irony that is). I suppose when the offer is on the table all midwives may have to be contacted via the Nurses Board, and given the opportunity to vote as was the case a few years ago Tania From: owner-ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au [mailto:owner-ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au] On Behalf Of Andrea Bilcliff Sent: Wednesday, 6 September 2006 1:48 PM To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed My understanding of the offer is quite basic and somewill know much more than me and are better able to articulate it, but I'll give it a shot... Anne O'Connor was very helpful and willing to answer all our questions at the meeting yesterday. What she couldn't, she was going to take back with her to find out for us. I'm sure if you contacted her she would be willing to answerany questions. CA provide this service for all kinds of self-employed workers.The management fee covers as much or as little book-keeping as we desire. If we want them to take out super payments, child support payments, whatever, they will. If we don't, they wont. If we want them to do BAS statements etc, this isalso included in the fee. If we want to continue doing our own book-keeping, this is fine also. Salary packaging was alsomentioned for the hospital employed midwives - they will do this too. They are aware that different midwives will charge different amounts for their services (as do other self-employed professionals). Some are paid in cash, some up-front, some in instalments, some after the birth. They have no interest in dictating what our charges or practice should be. Theirconcern is that we are registered as midwives. They are aware of the ACMI guidelines being just that...guidelines. The non-negotiable aspects, as I understand it, are: -the depositing of funds into their account when an invoice is paid (we get the final payment into our account the following day) -the management fee of 5% -the PII Public Liability fee of approx. 1% -the 20% flat tax rate (this isa minimum Govt requirement - you may pay more if you wish, orclaim it back at the end of year if too much is paid) It is extremelyhard to keep everyone informed as not all midwives are members of the various email discussion groups, ACMI, ASIMor even theirlocal groups such as MIPP SAIMA. I know there are independently practising midwives herein Vic who are not MIPP members. They have that choice but how do we get the message out to them? For now, it wouldbe of benefit if all midwives interested in keeping up-to-date withthe insurance offers joined the midwives insurance list http://au.groups.yahoo.com/group/Midwives_Insurance/ Hope this helps : ) Andrea Bilcliff -- No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/438 - Release Date: 5/09/2006 -- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Free Edition. Version: 7.1.405 / Virus Database: 268.11.7/438 - Release Date: 5/09/2006
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Title: Message Absolutely! That's why I'd love to see all midwives having to be members of ACMI. - Original Message - From: Tania Smallwood To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2006 2:31 PM Subject: RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Thanks for that Andrea, just on that point, I think we all need to be mindful that there are probably many midwives who are not online AT ALL. I know of a few here in SA, who rely on other means of keeping updated with things, and one of them had no idea about any of this until I mentioned it to her. I’m not sure what the answer is, the only body we are all a member of or have contact with in common is the Nurses Board (what an irony that is). I suppose when the offer is on the table all midwives may have to be contacted via the Nurses Board, and given the opportunity to vote as was the case a few years ago… Tania
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Hi Andrea, Sorry If I gave the impression that I was upset that I wasn't personally contacted (smile)that's not really the case although I do feel that it is very personal to all who practice independently.I was a little defensive as it seems nobody wants debate they think we should all just say yes. The Independent midwives in SA all belong to the SA independent midwives group and we meet regularly. I'm sure we are affiliated to the College although I can't be 100% on that I will find out. Hey Tania are we affiliated to the college?however it is the Independent midwives group and it makes sense that it's a good way to get the word around by contacting them. It's not that I'm not open minded because I really want to have insurance not for my practice but to be able to provide across the board care for the women I birth with and to be recognised inside the system. If however I was that concerned about not being covered I couldn't do what I do at the moment none of us could. That's why I think if it's not right we shouldn't do it. Sorry to the great women who are fighting our corner I really do know the work they have undertaken. I couldn't find the information on the college website I certainly did try and I mailed them. Thanks to the other Andreafor the information you gave it is what I already thought but talking frankly about it feels like the right thing to do before it goes any further. Not wanting to Compare with another country but the RCM in Britain is very well subscribed because it offers so much, legal advice professional indemnity (although not to independents directly) good information and a strong voice. It's a difficult one because without the members how can you get that but until you have it you won't encourage the members. Lisa - Original Message - From: Andrea Quanchi To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Wednesday, September 06, 2006 12:28 PM Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed But Lisa how can the college communicate with people who have no affiliation with the college. They and others are trying valiantly to get the message around and this is why it ended up on this list. It is and should be personal to you that the insurance is for you but taking it as a personal affront that you didn't receive a personal memo about this fledgling discussion is unreasonable. None of us did. We saw it on the same forums that you have the opportunity to participate in and have followed up on the invitations to participate. No one is belittling anyones opinion but I got the impression from your emails that you were upset that you hadn't been given more information on what CA was offering and you have the same information the rest of us have at this stage. You are welcome to contact Anne O Connor from CA for more details. It will be a new way of doing things for all of us but that is what they are offering in return for backing the insurance which no other company since 2003 has been prepared to do so of course they are going to want something in return. Keep an open mind and don't get mad at the very people who are fighting hard for this on all of our behalves. Andrea Quanchi On 06/09/2006, at 12:35 PM, Lisa Barrett wrote: Hang on personalising this debate is very important to me if I have to sign up. Maybe that's the problem not personal enough!! My SAIMA South Australian Independent Midwives Association. Should surely have received some information affiliated to the college or not. Having Insurance doesn't hinge on belonging to the College of Midwives. I was at the same day as Tania, Not a mention of any Insurance issues then. I don't think for one minute I have confusion. I want to feel to be important enough to be in the loop and wanted opinion from others around Australia of what they actually thought about this not just the party line. what I have to say is as important as everyone else just because I want to be cautious doesn't mean I should shut up surely. I know there are people working hard out there to benefit the midwifery community but please don't belittle my opinion or that of My SAIMA. Doesn't anyone else think that getting your woman to pay them and then they take what is required and give you the rest may be an issue. Can we all start charging 30dollars and will that cover our insurance tax, commission etc. What if they are not happy with something and won't pay up. They could start making policies and if we don't follow what they think is correct procedure they don't pay up. Has this been covered with the company? Thanks everyone Lisa - Original Message - From: B G To: ozmidwifery
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Hi Everyone, I'm interested to know everyone's thoughts on the PI. I work solely as an independent and I must be honest I don't think this offer is great. We shouldn't rush into anything just because we think PI gives us credibility. I haven't really seen any huge discussion on this anywhere. Has there been a gathering of Independent's that I missed to go into detail on this offer or even what we want and expect from our insurance? We don't want to shoot ourselves in the foot yet again in our eagerness to portray ourselves as professionals. Lisa Barrett - Original Message - From: Andrea Bilcliff To: Ozmidwifery Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 6:48 PM Subject: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed FYI... - Original Message - From: Robyn Thompson Please forward this on to as many midwives as possible. It would be great if more colleagues could contact Dr Barb Vernon, Executive Officer, ACMI as soon as possible to add your names to the list for PI Insurance. We need 200 before we can start the process, so far there are 90. Lets get the PI rolling for the greater good of our profession Warm regards, Robyn [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
LisaNothing is set in concrete yet but we need 200 names to be able to move forward. There is a meeting today in Melbourne and have been other meetings around the country. I suggest you ring Barb Vernon at ACMI and she can give you the relevant info for your stateAndreaOn 05/09/2006, at 8:24 AM, Lisa Barrett wrote:Hi Everyone, I'm interested to know everyone's thoughts on the PI. I work solely as an independent and I must be honest I don't think this offer is great. We shouldn't rush into anything just because we think PI gives us credibility. I haven't really seen any huge discussion on this anywhere. Has there been a gathering of Independent's that I missed to go into detail on this offer or even what we want and expect from our insurance? We don't want to shoot ourselves in the foot yet again in our eagerness to portray ourselves as professionals. Lisa Barrett- Original Message - From: Andrea BilcliffTo: OzmidwiferySent: Monday, September 04, 2006 6:48 PMSubject: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives neededFYI... - Original Message -From: Robyn ThompsonPlease forward this on to as many midwives as possible. It would be great if more colleagues could contact Dr Barb Vernon, Executive Officer, ACMI as soon as possible to add your names to the list for PI Insurance. We need 200 before we can start the process, so far there are 90. Let’s get the PI rolling for the greater good of our profession Warm regards, Robyn [EMAIL PROTECTED]
RE: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Hi all, Although not a midwife yet I attended the Sydney meeting with members of ASIM as an HBA rep. The offer to me sounded good in that you are only paying insurance for the actual births you attend. Its not just a 1 off fee. Therefore if you are a hosp mw whod like to do a few hbs a year you only pay insurance for those few you attend and if you are a full time city based hb midwife attended 30 births a year thats what you pay for. The other issue to consider is that this is the only company who are willing to offer insurance to mws, there has been a lot of work done on this issue over the past 5 years and no other insurance company has been willing to come to the party. In order for homebirth to move fwd both for mws and women in Aus we need to secure insurance then perhaps the student mws may get rights to accompany IPMs to hbs, hb mws may get rights in hosp to continue their care of the woman should a transfer become necessary, Publicly Funded hb may become a real option for women and it can only be a positive step in terms of raising the profile of IPMs. I suggest any mw who would like to raise the profile of the profession and help to make hb a real choice for Australian women register their interest and once the 200 are on a list discussions can begin on how it will all work. Warm regards Jo Hunter National Convenor HBA HAS Coordinator Innate Birth CBE and doula From: owner-ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au [mailto:owner-ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au] On Behalf Of Lisa Barrett Sent: Tuesday, 5 September 2006 8:25 AM To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Hi Everyone, I'm interested to know everyone's thoughts on the PI. I work solely as an independent and I must be honest I don't think this offer is great. We shouldn't rush into anything just because we think PI gives us credibility. I haven't really seen any huge discussion on this anywhere. Has there been a gathering of Independent's that I missed to go into detail on this offer or even what we want and expect from our insurance? We don't want to shoot ourselves in the foot yet again in our eagerness to portray ourselves as professionals. Lisa Barrett - Original Message - From: Andrea Bilcliff To: Ozmidwifery Sent: Monday, September 04, 2006 6:48 PM Subject: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed FYI... - Original Message - From: Robyn Thompson Please forward this on to as many midwives as possible. It would be great if more colleagues could contact Dr Barb Vernon, Executive Officer, ACMI as soon as possible to add your names to the list for PI Insurance. We need 200 before we can start the process, so far there are 90. Lets get the PI rolling for the greater good of our profession Warm regards, Robyn [EMAIL PROTECTED]
Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed
Hi Andrea, I have already emailed Barb Vernon but have not received a reply at all. I homebirthed in Britain for 14 years before coming here and I must say that although independent's have no insurance at the moment there it doesn't prevent or hinder the homebirth movement fear does that way more successfully than lack of insurance.. The biggest horror is that it leaves these midwives as us vulnerable to complaints not so much from clients but other professionals. I was looking for a discussion on how it actually works . I have read what's available but wanted to know what others think in more detail. Here seems a great place to discuss it. Lisa - Original Message - From: Andrea Quanchi To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Tuesday, September 05, 2006 8:47 AM Subject: Re: [ozmidwifery] Fw: PI Insurance - urgent - more interested midwives needed Lisa Nothing is set in concrete yet but we need 200 names to be able to move forward. There is a meeting today in Melbourne and have been other meetings around the country. I suggest you ring Barb Vernon at ACMI and she can give you the relevant info for your state Andrea On 05/09/2006, at 8:24 AM, Lisa Barrett wrote:
Re: [ozmidwifery] PI INSURANCE FOR MIDWIVES
Jan...thanks for this promising news. There was no form attached for ASIM application. Cheers,Tanya Fleming - Original Message - From: Jan Robinson To: ozmidwifery@acegraphics.com.au Sent: Monday, May 23, 2005 6:05 AM Subject: [ozmidwifery] PI INSURANCE FOR MIDWIVES Hi ozmiddersJust wanted to let the group know that the Insurance for Midwives Forum held in Parliament House Canberra 11th May 2005 was a huge success. Midwives present were able to establish more networks with significant others who could assist us gain true professional autonomy through personal indemnity insurance and medicare provider numbers. Midwives without indemnification and provider numbers are not viewed as professional by Governments or the general public. Further there has been an inequality of opportunity created through Federal Government insurance support for obstetricians and general practitioners providing care for healthy pregnant women. This discrimination has to be bought to the public's attention so I urge you all to visit your local Federal MP to make them aware of the Government's discrimination against midwives. Ask your local member if they would like to visit the midwives at the insurance meeting when it is held in Parliament House on 15th June. Your member should be sitting in the house on the 15th. MPs wanting to meet the uninsured midwives should contact Senator Aden Ridgeway direct for details on the Committee Room where the meeting is being held.Those midwives present at the May meeting included Claire Bunton (Cairns, Qld), the meeting organiser, and Robyn Thompson (Melbourne Vic), Akhal Khalsa (Sydney NSW), Sonya Beutel and Anne Bousfield (both from Toowoomba Qld), Helen Sandner (Bendigo Vic), Angela Pritham and Sally-Ann Brown (both from Wollongong NSW) and Marie Heath from Goulburn NSW. Unfortunately both Cindy Turner (ACT) and Donna Evans (Hunter Valley NSW) both had to apologise at the last moment. Trudie de Keijzer (who had driven from the Blue Mountains) had dinner with us and then had to drive all the way back to the Blue Mountains when one of her 'ladies in waiting' came into labour. We appreciated these midwives' efforts to attend the meeting and provide support. With such short notice and vast distances to be travelled as well as midwives getting ready to travel to Brisbane for the ICM, oganising a 'national meeting' was challenging. Those present realised that the meeting looked like 'an east-coast affair' but all the 'hands' documents and well wishes from other states that were tabled did a lot to add a national flavour to the meeting. Thanks to everyone who sent in their midwife's 'hands' documents as well as the hands from clients and their families. A huge number of signatures (literally into the thousands) arrived in time for the meeting and they are still coming in via the post. Although we were unable to table them inside the Parliament all present at the meeting voted they be used as a permanent PR display for our planned photo-shoot and media coverage during the next meeting. The display of 'hands' in now being constructed into a colorful wall hanging by Robyn Thompson who will bring the completed display to Canberra on 15th June. The midwives were indebted to Senator Aden Ridgeway who organised the Parliament House Committee Room and the provision of refreshments. Towards the end of the meeting Aden also introduced us to Senator Lyn Allison who pledged the support of the Democrats in achieving primary care midwifery services across the country. Mr Justin Noel volunteered his time to facilitate our meeting and we would never have achieved so much in the without his amazing grasp of the situation and his ability to keep us on track. No midwife left the room all day except for 'bathroom breaks' all were so intensely involved. Invaluable feedback from the research on Medical Indemnity Insurance conducted by Ms FIona Tito-Wheatland was distributed to the group as were important suggestions on the best way to get insurance from Mr Leigh Clark from AON Risk Service Australia Limited. Ingrid McKenzie represented the President of the Maternity Coalition with great professionalism and her concerns were duly noted by Mr Charles Maskell-Knight and his assistant Naomi who were representing the Honourable Tony Abbott, Federal Minister for Health and Aging during the meeting. The most important achievement of the day in my opinion was the fact that Mr Charles Maskell-Knight stayed at our meeting for over four hours - and he was listening! Although Mr Maskell-Knight was unable to provide an official opinion on the issues we were discussing he did assure us that self-employed midwives would have to have their own professional indemnity insurance before they could ever hope for a medicare
[ozmidwifery] PI INSURANCE FOR MIDWIVES
Hi ozmidders Just wanted to let the group know that the Insurance for Midwives Forum held in Parliament House Canberra 11th May 2005 was a huge success. Midwives present were able to establish more networks with significant others who could assist us gain true professional autonomy through personal indemnity insurance and medicare provider numbers. Midwives without indemnification and provider numbers are not viewed as professional by Governments or the general public. Further there has been an inequality of opportunity created through Federal Government insurance support for obstetricians and general practitioners providing care for healthy pregnant women. This discrimination has to be bought to the public's attention so I urge you all to visit your local Federal MP to make them aware of the Government's discrimination against midwives. Ask your local member if they would like to visit the midwives at the insurance meeting when it is held in Parliament House on 15th June. Your member should be sitting in the house on the 15th. MPs wanting to meet the uninsured midwives should contact Senator Aden Ridgeway direct for details on the Committee Room where the meeting is being held. Those midwives present at the May meeting included Claire Bunton (Cairns, Qld), the meeting organiser, and Robyn Thompson (Melbourne Vic), Akhal Khalsa (Sydney NSW), Sonya Beutel and Anne Bousfield (both from Toowoomba Qld), Helen Sandner (Bendigo Vic), Angela Pritham and Sally-Ann Brown (both from Wollongong NSW) and Marie Heath from Goulburn NSW. Unfortunately both Cindy Turner (ACT) and Donna Evans (Hunter Valley NSW) both had to apologise at the last moment. Trudie de Keijzer (who had driven from the Blue Mountains) had dinner with us and then had to drive all the way back to the Blue Mountains when one of her 'ladies in waiting' came into labour. We appreciated these midwives' efforts to attend the meeting and provide support. With such short notice and vast distances to be travelled as well as midwives getting ready to travel to Brisbane for the ICM, oganising a 'national meeting' was challenging. Those present realised that the meeting looked like 'an east-coast affair' but all the 'hands' documents and well wishes from other states that were tabled did a lot to add a national flavour to the meeting. Thanks to everyone who sent in their midwife's 'hands' documents as well as the hands from clients and their families. A huge number of signatures (literally into the thousands) arrived in time for the meeting and they are still coming in via the post. Although we were unable to table them inside the Parliament all present at the meeting voted they be used as a permanent PR display for our planned photo-shoot and media coverage during the next meeting. The display of 'hands' in now being constructed into a colorful wall hanging by Robyn Thompson who will bring the completed display to Canberra on 15th June. The midwives were indebted to Senator Aden Ridgeway who organised the Parliament House Committee Room and the provision of refreshments. Towards the end of the meeting Aden also introduced us to Senator Lyn Allison who pledged the support of the Democrats in achieving primary care midwifery services across the country. Mr Justin Noel volunteered his time to facilitate our meeting and we would never have achieved so much in the without his amazing grasp of the situation and his ability to keep us on track. No midwife left the room all day except for 'bathroom breaks' all were so intensely involved. Invaluable feedback from the research on Medical Indemnity Insurance conducted by Ms FIona Tito-Wheatland was distributed to the group as were important suggestions on the best way to get insurance from Mr Leigh Clark from AON Risk Service Australia Limited. Ingrid McKenzie represented the President of the Maternity Coalition with great professionalism and her concerns were duly noted by Mr Charles Maskell-Knight and his assistant Naomi who were representing the Honourable Tony Abbott, Federal Minister for Health and Aging during the meeting. The most important achievement of the day in my opinion was the fact that Mr Charles Maskell-Knight stayed at our meeting for over four hours - and he was listening! Although Mr Maskell-Knight was unable to provide an official opinion on the issues we were discussing he did assure us that self-employed midwives would have to have their own professional indemnity insurance before they could ever hope for a medicare provider number. Towards gaining PI insurance, Dr Barbara Vernon, Executive Officer of the ACMI has pledged to put aside some of her valuable time to wrie a new submission to Lloyds of London with ASIM providing IPM input. It seems certain that the only way for self-employed midwives can hope for PI insurance will be through taking a new ASIM/College submission to Lloyds of London in person. Mr Leigh Clark reminded us that he had seen submissions from individual groups
[ozmidwifery] Labours commitment to PI insurance (X posted! sorry!)
Hi everyone, I just had a call from the Labour Candidate for Solomon, up here in the NT in reply to a letter i sent regarding Professional indemnity insurance for midwives in the NT. He ASSURES me that he has talked to several people regarding the issue, and that labour is COMMITTED (exact words) to taking the issue of PI insurance to the Health ministers State and Federal conference, when it next occurs. This will be done byJuila Gilliard and it will focused on providing solutions to thelack of PI insurance country wide, not just for the NT. He sounded sincere and i really think they will deliver for midwives. Kirsten Darwin. ~~~start life with a midwife~~~
Re: [ozmidwifery] Labours commitment to PI insurance (X posted! sorry!)
This will be done byJuila Gilliard and it will focused on providing solutions to thelack of PI insurance country wide, not just for the NT. He sounded sincere and i really think they will deliver for midwives.Kirsten. Darwin. ~~~start life with a midwife~~~ That's excellent and inspiring news Kirsten! Love Abby
[ozmidwifery] Fw: VERY, VERY URGENT: PI Insurance, NMAP the Greens
WE MUST HAVE SUPPORT FOR THE GREENS IN MELBOURNE ON WEDNESDAY 13TH NOVEMBER AT 11AM. Venue to be informed. Read on.. The issue of PI insurance is very complex. If the Labor govt is returned, it intends to change the various Acts to make insurance mandatory as a condition of registration. If Labour loses, its quite likely that Liberal will implement these changes anyway, as the health department is quite advanced in preparing the new policies. The Nurses Act, at the moment, states that Nurses Boards "may" refuse to register anyone who does not have adequate insurance. The time is coming when midwives will be pressured into submission, with the threat of unprofessional conduct and deregistration. THE GREENS HEALTH POLICY, WHICH IS HIGHLIGHTING NMAP, AND DEMANDING CHOICE FOR WOMEN, IS THE OPTION TO SHOW BOTH STATE AND FEDERAL GOVERNMENT THAT WOMEN ARE SERIOUS ABOUT WHAT IS DONE TO THEM IN BIRTHING.
Re: PI Insurance expires
Sally, yes, this argument has been a key one made in all the lobbying being done both at State and national levels by the Maternity Coalition and others. We'll have to win out in the end... regards Barb. From: Sally [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mon, 3 Jun 2002 22:01:45 +0800 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: RE: PI Insurance expires Now I have been thinking with the government stepping in to assist the doctors that perhaps there is a road to travel on. The road is one of discrimination. That the government has quickly stepped in to assist the medical profession while independent midwives' practices disintegrate. For those with more political sense than I has this been explored? Sally Westbury -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: PI Insurance expires
I must have missed news of any marches in Sydney?? Denise - Original Message - From: Jayne [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, June 03, 2002 10:30 PM Subject: Re: PI Insurance expires In all honesty Sue, I think the loss of PI insurance for midwives is just one little battle out there within the insurance world. Public liability insurance crisis is affecting the horse riding industry (which includes pony club riders, trail ride and riding centre operators) and is a huge issue at present in the community where I live - their policies expire on 30 June. Apparently there were marches all over the country with thousands of people involved on the weekend to highlight this crisis that is crushing their industry. It just seems that the insurance world is collapsing and that many varied groups will go down with it. It IS shocking that nothing seems to have been achieved and another right or choice has been taken from women. Regards, Jayne - Original Message - From: Sue Cookson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, June 03, 2002 3:51 PM Subject: PI Insurance expires Hi all, Not a lot on this line recently re the PI insurance fallout. According to a local north coast newspaper, ACMI states that 85% of all independent midwives have ceased to work as of 31st May with the failure of anyone to secure PI insurance. Which states have attached PI insurance to registration, and which states have in any way picked up the PI insurance for practising midwives?? I'm amazed this debate has subsided as it seems inextricably linked to the wellbeing of the homebirth movement as a whole and to women's individual rights and choice. Comments please!! Sue Cookson a tired and tireless birth activist, mother and birth attendant -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: PI Insurance expires
Dear Sally There is discrimination at many levels in this field For example how are negotiations in WA going for Fee for service for CMWA midwives? Why are Aust midwives not able to be offered what the doctors get for the same service?? Denise - Original Message - From: Sally [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, June 04, 2002 12:01 AM Subject: RE: PI Insurance expires Now I have been thinking with the government stepping in to assist the doctors that perhaps there is a road to travel on. The road is one of discrimination. That the government has quickly stepped in to assist the medical profession while independent midwives' practices disintegrate. For those with more political sense than I has this been explored? Sally Westbury -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
PI Insurance expires
Hi all, Not a lot on this line recently re the PI insurance fallout. According to a local north coast newspaper, ACMI states that 85% of all independent midwives have ceased to work as of 31st May with the failure of anyone to secure PI insurance. Which states have attached PI insurance to registration, and which states have in any way picked up the PI insurance for practising midwives?? I'm amazed this debate has subsided as it seems inextricably linked to the wellbeing of the homebirth movement as a whole and to women's individual rights and choice. Comments please!! Sue Cookson a tired and tireless birth activist, mother and birth attendant -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: PI Insurance expires
In all honesty Sue, I think the loss of PI insurance for midwives is just one little battle out there within the insurance world. Public liability insurance crisis is affecting the horse riding industry (which includes pony club riders, trail ride and riding centre operators) and is a huge issue at present in the community where I live - their policies expire on 30 June. Apparently there were marches all over the country with thousands of people involved on the weekend to highlight this crisis that is crushing their industry. It just seems that the insurance world is collapsing and that many varied groups will go down with it. It IS shocking that nothing seems to have been achieved and another right or choice has been taken from women. Regards, Jayne - Original Message - From: Sue Cookson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, June 03, 2002 3:51 PM Subject: PI Insurance expires Hi all, Not a lot on this line recently re the PI insurance fallout. According to a local north coast newspaper, ACMI states that 85% of all independent midwives have ceased to work as of 31st May with the failure of anyone to secure PI insurance. Which states have attached PI insurance to registration, and which states have in any way picked up the PI insurance for practising midwives?? I'm amazed this debate has subsided as it seems inextricably linked to the wellbeing of the homebirth movement as a whole and to women's individual rights and choice. Comments please!! Sue Cookson a tired and tireless birth activist, mother and birth attendant -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
RE: PI Insurance expires
Now I have been thinking with the government stepping in to assist the doctors that perhaps there is a road to travel on. The road is one of discrimination. That the government has quickly stepped in to assist the medical profession while independent midwives' practices disintegrate. For those with more political sense than I has this been explored? Sally Westbury -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: PI Insurance expires
In a message dated 4/06/02 12:04:32 AM AUS Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Now I have been thinking with the government stepping in to assist the doctors that perhaps there is a road to travel on. The road is one of discrimination. That the government has quickly stepped in to assist the medical profession while independent midwives' practices disintegrate. For those with more political sense than I has this been explored? Sally Westbury Hi Sally.great to hear from you...how things over in the West??? Your observation above Sally is spot on...and the ACMI I believe is onto it. I attended an ACMI Sub-Branch meeting back in early May and Alana Street spoke to us Re: the PII issue and mentioned that the ACMI was looking into avenues Re: Discrimination of midwives in this regard...perhaps Alana if your lurking...you could give us an update on progress here, particularly now given that the federal govt has kicked in again to offer continued support to medicos after June 30!! Yours in birth, Tina Pettigrew Birthworks Bachelor of Midwifery Student and Independent CBE Convenor, Aust B. Mid Student Collective. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BMidStudentCollective [EMAIL PROTECTED] " As we trust the flowers to open to new life - So we can trust birth" Harriette Hartigan. ---
Re: PI Insurance expires
Which states have attached PI insurance to registration, Sue, W.A doesn't attatch registration to P.I. Insurance. I think you can credit that to those strong midwives who have sat on the Nurse's Reg. Board,( including me) we have had to represent the independent midwife strongly because most hospital based midwives cant see our point of view or how things affect us and the women we serve. MM -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: [BMidStudentCollective] Re: Flinders Uni PI Insurance !!!!!!!!
Dear list: Firstly PI for midwives: I recently heard from a Canadian midwife what is happenning there re PI: they were faced not with withdrawal of insurance but with savagely escalating costs of premiums (from $2,000 per yr to $40,000 per yr). Apparently in British Columbia the College of Midwives in conjunction with the government developed a self insurance scheme where by the midwives pooled their premiums and were underwritten by the government. So far there haven't been any big law suits, and if there is one then they may be belly up, so to speak, but for the moment they are insured for a reasonable premium. I am presuming the students are also covered. Now student insurance: when I came over as a student midwife to ST. George, there was concern that my insurance wasn't sufficient. In the US we didn't have to be insured as a student unless we worked in a hospital, then because we weren't a hospital employee, we needed insurance. It is provided by Dean Insurance Agency, Inc. (for those of you who have access to copies of Midwifery Today they advertise there). The contact person is Ann Geisler, her email is: [EMAIL PROTECTED] she would be able to advise you re what is currently available. It appears that a lot has changed since September 11 (the date and reason publically given for either withdrawing insurance or raising the premiums astronomically). If Dean is still offering insurance to midwives and student midwives, one possible drawback is that any court cases would have to be in the USA.? That is how my policy is worded. The other concern raised in Sydney was my lack of workers compensation, which wasn't really covered by my policy, and since I wasn't a hospital employee I didn't have. My school drew up an official looking agreement stating that St. George would not be held liable by the school or myself if I was injured or became ill due to working there. But, it seems the hospitals and clinics that students will work in while at Flinders Uni could solve this by making you employees. I think that is how the med students will get by: they will probably restrict the actual medical students to observation roles, but the residents will have a salary (albiet a pittance) but it will cover them insurance and workers comp. wise. So, maybe you all have to become resident midwives/midwifery residents/student midwife residents or whatever and be temporary employees of the hospitals and clinics. How are the Victorian Uni's handling it?? I thought that was how it was done anyway? PI in general: even though it appears sometimes that midwives are being targeted specifically it appears to be (to me) that it is any small business person, midwife, doctor, house painter, landscape architect. Here is Seattle many GP's are going out of business as their PI insurance goes through the roof (around $40,000/year without obstetrics). Something has to be done unless we are happy to all go to the one place for everything. (that is a very flaky sentence, but oh well). lots of love to you all. I am still waiting for my exam results. marilyn -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Flinders Uni PI Insurance !!!!!!!!
Hello wise women of the list I have had snippets come through to me today from B Mid students from SA Re the withdrawal of Flinders Uni PI insurance for the B Mid students !!! Is there anyone out there in cyber space who can share any further light on this !! Jennifairy, Allison, Kackie K Thanks folks.. Yours in birth, Tina Pettigrew Birthworks Bachelor of Midwifery Student and Independent CBE Convenor, Aust B. Mid Student Collective. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BMidStudentCollective [EMAIL PROTECTED] " As we trust the flowers to open to new life - So we can trust birth" Harriette Hartigan. ---
Re: Flinders Uni PI Insurance !!!!!!!!
yeah its been talked about here since we started, 2day it was on the front page of the paper so I guess the Uni must be getting quite desperate. I'm hoping that it will provide the impetus needed for the DHS or other Govt body to get involved properly in this big mess (the cynical part of me says otherwise) sort out the whole PII issue. There have been letters in the local paper from Mr Mrs Average calling for insurance reform one this a.m. pointing out that NZ has a perfectly good system that we could copy (yeah well we've known that for a while) so maybe theres a change on the way. Was kinda nice that for once there was a front page story about midwifery that didnt involve some poor git copping the bad end of the health care system. (okok, bad choice of words, well then lots of poor gits in the form of students instead, not some mid being sued or some mothers' bad outcome bcoz of mw 'incompetence' or etc) All I can say is 'get used to it' try find out when your Uni's insurance is due for renewal, this is just the first domino as far as I'm concerned. The other thing Ive thort of is that it puts the Unis in a very bad situation, from both sides - if they do not find an insurer decide not to send students on placement without it, then it seems to me that the students have a case for litigation themselves (yes stupid as it sounds) for all sorts of reasons - loss of income (some students have chucked in jobs so they cld do the course), just the fact that we will perhaps not be able to graduate or fulfill the criteria for registration etcetcetc. Something must be done, I just cannot envisage they will allow it to get to that point. What I know is that Flinders is pinning its hopes on a broker in London who is trying to find an off-shore insurer. In one way I hope that its not that easy, I want the Govt to not be let off the hook on this so easily. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Hello wise women of the list I have had snippets come through to me today from B Mid students from SA Re the withdrawal of Flinders Uni PI insurance for the B Mid students !!! Is there anyone out there in cyber space who can share any further light on this !! Jennifairy, Allison, Kackie K Thanks folks.. Yours in birth, Tina Pettigrew Birthworks Bachelor of Midwifery Student and Independent CBE Convenor, Aust B. Mid Student Collective. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BMidStudentCollective [EMAIL PROTECTED] */ As we trust the flowers to open to new life - So we can trust birth/*/ Harriette Hartigan. --- / _ Do You Yahoo!? Get your free @yahoo.com address at http://mail.yahoo.com -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: PI Insurance
Dear Joy and list when we had our PI pulled from under our feet Ipursued this line the only potential I got was from guild to be covered to MAY 2002 .As it looked like thACMI were working for us I did not pursue matters but am very interested now Numerous persons say you can get 'it of shore I don't really know what that means and was told that if the insurance company is not registered in Aust then the Aust govt will not oversee a payout if that insurance company goes out of busness. This year I have attended 13 planned homebirths last year 32 planned homebirths I'm stumped if the the nurses act says that I need insurence to remain within the law and what about the option of homebirth for women in Victoria? So Joy and list I watch for developments wit great interest love Jan - Original Message - From: Johnston [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: ozmidwifery list (E-mail) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Monday, March 11, 2002 10:29 AM Subject: PI Insurance Dear ozmidwives, and interested consumer activists Has anyone explored a personal PI insurance arrangement, where a midwife buys insurance as an individual? What is available? What terms? What cost? I am wanting to pursue this line of inquiry myself, and would appreciate any help from colleagues who have already gone into it. With the recent changes to Victoria's Nurses Act, giving the Board discretionary power to require us to demonstrate that we have insurance, it's only a matter of time before midwives who continue to attend homebirths come under the spotlight. If no insurance is interpreted as 'unprofessional conduct', which is a possibility (imo), midwives attending homebirths could be up for investigation and discipline. I don't believe this would stop homebirth, but it would certainly force it underground. This is not in the public interest. I believe that if the Nurses Boards and other regulatory authorities around Australia are truly committed to protecting the public, they will actively seek to protect the right of the woman to access a known midwife to attend birth in any setting, in a way that is consistent with the ICM Definition of the Midwife. Surely this is best practice. I look forward to your responses, and will keep you informed of the results of my inquiries. 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. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
PI Insurance
Dear ozmidwives, and interested consumer activists Has anyone explored a personal PI insurance arrangement, where a midwife buys insurance as an individual? What is available? What terms? What cost? I am wanting to pursue this line of inquiry myself, and would appreciate any help from colleagues who have already gone into it. With the recent changes to Victoria's Nurses Act, giving the Board discretionary power to require us to demonstrate that we have insurance, it's only a matter of time before midwives who continue to attend homebirths come under the spotlight. If no insurance is interpreted as 'unprofessional conduct', which is a possibility (imo), midwives attending homebirths could be up for investigation and discipline. I don't believe this would stop homebirth, but it would certainly force it underground. This is not in the public interest. I believe that if the Nurses Boards and other regulatory authorities around Australia are truly committed to protecting the public, they will actively seek to protect the right of the woman to access a known midwife to attend birth in any setting, in a way that is consistent with the ICM Definition of the Midwife. Surely this is best practice. I look forward to your responses, and will keep you informed of the results of my inquiries. 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.
PI Insurance - again
To the Victorian oz'ers and anyone else interested... I have just been watching Sunrise on Channel 7 - produced in Melbourne. It had a report on the fact insurance has gone through the roof in QLD. Because coconuts can fall from the palms and injure people who then sue the local councils, all the palms are being ripped out in public places to prevent litigation - effectively changing the landscape of tropical Qld. One rafting company's insurance has gone from about $16,000 to $77,000 per year and many tourist type places/small businesses etc are going out of business due to the insurance (surprise, surprise) Is it worth contacting Sunrise and expressing the views on the fact that many MIPPs are 'going out of business' and not practising due to the insurance issue. The rep from the insurance council said it was a lawyers picnic at present and he believed Govts and community should rally to decide what can be done about the huge increase in litigation before it becomes like America. Is there an angle here to get more publicity for the plight of MWs and the birthchoices for women??? Their address is sunrise @seven.com.au.
Re: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL
Dear Jan and all concerned in bringing about this totally enlightened outcome. it is wonderful. This is a great leap forward. My heart sang as my eyes could hardly believe what they were reading. I feel that we are going to see the amazing power of the feminine reclaim birth and free women from the grip of fear and ignorance. I know that we can do it. Every time a woman claims her power and authority and births her baby her way we all advance as human beings. Love to all, Rachana . From: Jan Robinson [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mon, 24 Sep 2001 15:38:50 +1000 To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL Dear list and any midwives that were unable to be in Brisbane last week. Re: PI Insurance for midwives the ACMI will be pursuing one of two offers that involve ALL their members to minimise costs. I am hopeful ACMI will pursue the offer that includes a $250 premium for ALL College members. This $250 insurance offer allows College midwives to transfer from one practice domain to the other. To do this College members must declare at the beginning of each policy year the practice domain that is their predominant one e.g. they are EMPLOYED for most of the time or SELF-EMPLOYED most of the time. This offer will give employed midwives a $2 million PI cover and self-employed midwives a $10 million PI cover. The College insurance will provide malpractice cover to those employed midwives who do a few home births or other community work as well as covering the self-employed midwife who might be doing the odd hospital shift. ALL College members will be covered for significant legal expenses and other enticements within this policy. The $250 offer also has the potential to open up the market place for natural births with midwives. The private health insurers are just waiting to have evidence of midwive's malpractice cover before they procede to offer natural birth packages (including home births) with a midwife to their members to reduce their current payout costs associated with obstetric births in private hospitals. I'm sure the ACMI President will be making an announcement regarding progress of the insurance offer soon. As I understand it the insurance premium will be a necessary part of ACMI membership .. whether consumer member or student member the $250 malpractice fee will be tagged on to membership dues each year . College membership will finally allow Australian midwives to demonstrate their public accountability to the women they serve. In the meantime it will be appropriate for individuals wanting PI cover to pursue College Membership. If not possessing the required qualifications to legally practise midwifery, then enrolement in the Bachelor of Midwifery courses beginning next year will be sufficient to gain student access to the PI Cover during clinical experiences through the preceptoring midwife. Another way to get the insurance would be to pursue College membership as a consumer member. YES! the new ACMI Constitution was approved that allows for consumer membership and YES! ACMI will be moving their national headquarters to Canberra to facilitate easier political networking on behalf of childbearing women. ACMI has now begun to proceed down a pathway similar to their New Zealand sisters . This will lead to a strengthening of our Colleges' midwifery ties and the beginning of a wonderful new partnership with Australian women! Jan Robinson -- __ Jan RobinsonPhone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitionere-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __ -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL
Dear Allison I would think that consumer membership would be honorary or at the most consumer members would probably only pay for the cost of their journal and newsletter and a very small administrative fee each year. The College Insurance Policy would be necessary for practising midwife members only and that would have to be clearly stated to the proposed insurers. Obviously retired members, life members, corporate members and the like would not want to be covered for midwifery malpractice. This would be a good question to put to the national executive as they will have the job of implementing the new constitution. Cheers Jan -- __ Jan Robinson Phone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitioner e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __ -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL
With the proposed new insurance arrangement, is there going to be some prorata arrangement for part time or casual workers? Kirsten Blacker From: Jan Robinson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Allison Ken [EMAIL PROTECTED] CC: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL Date: Tue, 2 Oct 2001 14:31:40 +1000 Dear Allison I would think that consumer membership would be honorary or at the most consumer members would probably only pay for the cost of their journal and newsletter and a very small administrative fee each year. The College Insurance Policy would be necessary for practising midwife members only and that would have to be clearly stated to the proposed insurers. Obviously retired members, life members, corporate members and the like would not want to be covered for midwifery malpractice. This would be a good question to put to the national executive as they will have the job of implementing the new constitution. Cheers Jan -- __ Jan Robinson Phone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitioner e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __ -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. _ Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com/intl.asp -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL
Gee Jan, I must have been reading another constitution which was passed at the conference. - Original Message - From: Jan Robinson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: Allison Ken [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, October 02, 2001 2:31 PM Subject: Re: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL Dear Allison I would think that consumer membership would be honorary or at the most consumer members would probably only pay for the cost of their journal and newsletter and a very small administrative fee each year. The College Insurance Policy would be necessary for practising midwife members only and that would have to be clearly stated to the proposed insurers. Obviously retired members, life members, corporate members and the like would not want to be covered for midwifery malpractice. This would be a good question to put to the national executive as they will have the job of implementing the new constitution. Cheers Jan -- __ Jan Robinson Phone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitioner e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __ -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL
Dear Jan, it is so exciting to think that the PI issue is so close to being resolved at such a reasonable price - congratulations to all who have worked so hard to achieve this. While I think it's an excellent idea that paying for insurance be linked to ACMI membership I can't understand why any consumer would need PI insurance when they are not practicing as a midwife! Could someone please explain the rationale of this? I can only think this would place a cost barrier to many consumers who would otherwise be keen to join and support the midwifery profession. I am not speaking on my own behalf as I am already an associate member, hoping to be in the first BMID intake and will be happy to pay. Perplexed, allison. -Original Message- From: Jan Robinson [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Monday, 24 September 2001 8:39 Subject: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL Dear list and any midwives that were unable to be in Brisbane last week. Re: PI Insurance for midwives the ACMI will be pursuing one of two offers that involve ALL their members to minimise costs. I am hopeful ACMI will pursue the offer that includes a $250 premium for ALL College members. This $250 insurance offer allows College midwives to transfer from one practice domain to the other. To do this College members must declare at the beginning of each policy year the practice domain that is their predominant one e.g. they are EMPLOYED for most of the time or SELF-EMPLOYED most of the time. This offer will give employed midwives a $2 million PI cover and self-employed midwives a $10 million PI cover. The College insurance will provide malpractice cover to those employed midwives who do a few home births or other community work as well as covering the self-employed midwife who might be doing the odd hospital shift. ALL College members will be covered for significant legal expenses and other enticements within this policy. The $250 offer also has the potential to open up the market place for natural births with midwives. The private health insurers are just waiting to have evidence of midwive's malpractice cover before they procede to offer natural birth packages (including home births) with a midwife to their members to reduce their current payout costs associated with obstetric births in private hospitals. I'm sure the ACMI President will be making an announcement regarding progress of the insurance offer soon. As I understand it the insurance premium will be a necessary part of ACMI membership .. whether consumer member or student member the $250 malpractice fee will be tagged on to membership dues each year . College membership will finally allow Australian midwives to demonstrate their public accountability to the women they serve. In the meantime it will be appropriate for individuals wanting PI cover to pursue College Membership. If not possessing the required qualifications to legally practise midwifery, then enrolement in the Bachelor of Midwifery courses beginning next year will be sufficient to gain student access to the PI Cover during clinical experiences through the preceptoring midwife. Another way to get the insurance would be to pursue College membership as a consumer member. YES! the new ACMI Constitution was approved that allows for consumer membership and YES! ACMI will be moving their national headquarters to Canberra to facilitate easier political networking on behalf of childbearing women. ACMI has now begun to proceed down a pathway similar to their New Zealand sisters . This will lead to a strengthening of our Colleges' midwifery ties and the beginning of a wonderful new partnership with Australian women! Jan Robinson -- __ Jan Robinson Phone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitioner e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __ -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL
I would think that there is the benefit of having IPMs with affordable insurance available for consumers to use. The reasonable rate obtained can probably only be obtained by spreading the cost of premiums over as large a membership base as possible. I can't believe what I have been reading though: is the cost of PI through ACMI, $250 ? as opposed to the $4000 being discussed previously? Am I missing something? marilyn -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
UPDATE on PI INSURANCE FOR ALL
Dear list and any midwives that were unable to be in Brisbane last week. Re: PI Insurance for midwives the ACMI will be pursuing one of two offers that involve ALL their members to minimise costs. I am hopeful ACMI will pursue the offer that includes a $250 premium for ALL College members. This $250 insurance offer allows College midwives to transfer from one practice domain to the other. To do this College members must declare at the beginning of each policy year the practice domain that is their predominant one e.g. they are EMPLOYED for most of the time or SELF-EMPLOYED most of the time. This offer will give employed midwives a $2 million PI cover and self-employed midwives a $10 million PI cover. The College insurance will provide malpractice cover to those employed midwives who do a few home births or other community work as well as covering the self-employed midwife who might be doing the odd hospital shift. ALL College members will be covered for significant legal expenses and other enticements within this policy. The $250 offer also has the potential to open up the market place for natural births with midwives. The private health insurers are just waiting to have evidence of midwive's malpractice cover before they procede to offer natural birth packages (including home births) with a midwife to their members to reduce their current payout costs associated with obstetric births in private hospitals. I'm sure the ACMI President will be making an announcement regarding progress of the insurance offer soon. As I understand it the insurance premium will be a necessary part of ACMI membership .. whether consumer member or student member the $250 malpractice fee will be tagged on to membership dues each year . College membership will finally allow Australian midwives to demonstrate their public accountability to the women they serve. In the meantime it will be appropriate for individuals wanting PI cover to pursue College Membership. If not possessing the required qualifications to legally practise midwifery, then enrolement in the Bachelor of Midwifery courses beginning next year will be sufficient to gain student access to the PI Cover during clinical experiences through the preceptoring midwife. Another way to get the insurance would be to pursue College membership as a consumer member. YES! the new ACMI Constitution was approved that allows for consumer membership and YES! ACMI will be moving their national headquarters to Canberra to facilitate easier political networking on behalf of childbearing women. ACMI has now begun to proceed down a pathway similar to their New Zealand sisters . This will lead to a strengthening of our Colleges' midwifery ties and the beginning of a wonderful new partnership with Australian women! Jan Robinson -- __ Jan Robinson Phone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitioner e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __ -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
PI Insurance in Vic
Dear ozmidpeople PLEASE SUPPORT VICTORIAN INDEPENDENT MIDWIVES, AND WOMEN WHO HAVE BOOKED THEIR SERVICES. Please write letters, requesting urgent action on behalf of women seeking maternity services, and midwives, to: The Hon John Thwaites Minister for Health 555 Collins Street Melbourne Vic 3000 And to Dr Wooldridge We have been given 4-days' notice that as of 1September, we will have no insurance cover. Previously we had been told that insurance was being reviewed in September. This is totally unreasonable. The whole maternity/midwifery community should be outraged. This applies to most midwives who attend women privately in Victoria. Note that this has happened at the same time as ANF has accepted a midwife:woman ratio of less than 1to1 for women in labour in the State's hospitals. Re: professional indemnity insurance for Victorian midwives Midwives who have insurance through ANF will NOT be insured for independent practice from 1 Sept 2001. Midwives employed in hospitals or health services will continue to receive PII cover. This message has come from Lisa Fitzpatrick at the Vic ANF. ANF will send a letter to members who have been identified as midwives in private practice, and inform them of this situation. Midwives will individually decide whether or not they will continue practising without insurance. It's not an easy decision. If anyone wants to know, please ask the midwife concerned. Maternity Coalition needs to send a delegation to John Thwaites, in an effort to protect the interests of women who engage a midwife for professional services, and in the interests of midwives whose livelihood is threatened. [a request for such a meeting, seeking assurance that women who employ midwives will not be disadvantaged, has gone to the Minister] Joy Johnston [EMAIL PROTECTED] -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: Canberra Update - PI Insurance
Title: Re: Canberra Update - PI Insurance Congratulations, Justine You have put a phenomenal amount of work into this campaign. The women of the southern highlands, the monaro and the ACT will remember your name forever. Now we need to get similar motions passed by the Governments of the rest of the states and the Northern Territory. Forward with the power of women and keep up the momentum everyone Jan Robinson -- __ Jan Robinson Phone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitioner e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __
Re: Canberra Update - PI Insurance
Title: Re: Canberra Update - PI Insurance Thanks Jan and others for your lovely messages of support. Thanks has to go a band of 3 committed warriors (Barb Vernon, Ingrid McKenzie and Margie Perkins) who are the yang to my ying!! and all members of Maternity Coalition. We have 7 kids between us (some at challenging ages!) and are keeping it together for the next couple of weeks before the ACT election. If we achieve what the motion says (then please remember our names!!) we are yet to keep 'the bastards honest'. ( I'll gladly come to NSW and lobby the pollies with you) We will keep the list informed. In solidarity Justine Caines Maternity Coalition ACT Branch From: Jan Robinson [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Mon, 13 Aug 2001 06:32:13 +1000 To: Allison Ken [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Re: Canberra Update - PI Insurance Congratulations, Justine You have put a phenomenal amount of work into this campaign. The women of the southern highlands, the monaro and the ACT will remember your name forever. Now we need to get similar motions passed by the Governments of the rest of the states and the Northern Territory. Forward with the power of women and keep up the momentum everyone Jan Robinson -- __ Jan Robinson Phone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitioner e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __
Re: Canberra Update - PI Insurance
In a message dated 13/08/01 12:28:49 PM AUS Eastern Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Thanks Jan and others for your lovely messages of support. Thanks has to go a band of 3 committed warriors (Barb Vernon, Ingrid McKenzie and Margie Perkins) who are the yang to my ying!! and all members of Maternity Coalition. We have 7 kids between us (some at challenging ages!) and are keeping it together for the next couple of weeks before the ACT election. If we achieve what the motion says (then please remember our names!!) we are yet to keep 'the bastards honest'. ( I'll gladly come to NSW and lobby the pollies with you) We will keep the list informed. In solidarity Justine Caines Maternity Coalition ACT Branch Hello Justine and fellow warriors in the ACT. My sincerest congratulations to you all in your efforts to date on the PI crisis facing Australian Midwifery. It is my hope that our partners in crime, midwives, will acknowledge all the hard work, and commitment from women (consumers) like yourselves and many others when it comes to the vote at the ACMI AGM in September to include consumers as equal partners within the ACMI - in the true spirit of partnership and in recognition of the vital role that consumers play in the promotion and protection of the midwifery profession. Yours in birth, Tina Pettigrew Birthworks Independent CBE and aspiring B.Mid Midwife. Convenor, Aust B. Mid Student Collective. As we trust the flowers to open to new life - So we can trust birth Harriette Hartigan. --- -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Re: Canberra Update - PI Insurance
Justine You are worth your weight in gold! Thank you on behalf of the Australian Society of Independent Midwives for all you are doing for IPMs and the women of the ACT. Let's hope that all the State Parliaments now follow with some debate on the issue. Jan Robinson -- __ Jan Robinson Phone/fax: 011+ 61+ 2+ 9546 4350 Independent Midwife Practitioner e-mail: [EMAIL PROTECTED] 8 Robin Crescent www: midwiferyeducation.com.au South Hurstville NSW 2221 National Coordinator, ASIM __ -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Canberra Update - PI Insurance
Title: Canberra Update - PI Insurance Hi all Today in the ACT Legislative Assembly a motion was passed as follows:- That this Assembly calls on the Government to - Take all necessary steps to ensure that affordable professional indemnity insurance is available to independent practicing midwives working in the ACT, before their current insurance policies expire, and until a workable national solution is found and implemented. We are yet to get a copy of the transcript to follow the debate. We will keep you informed of any further progress. In Birthing Solidarity Justine Caines Maternity Coalition - ACT Branch
Re: Fridays PI insurance meeting in Sydney
Congratulations Jane, I hope the meeting on Friday is a success, and a resolution about insurance is formulated. Sally From: "Jane Palmer" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: "Ozmidwifery \(E-mail\)" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subject: Fridays PI insurance meeting in Sydney Date: Wed, 25 Jul 2001 20:41:22 +1000 Hi all Posting this message for a colleague Jane I have a previous client whose husband is the head of government relations for Telstra. He has offered his services free of charge (usually 100's of thousands!) for Fridays meeting. Lobbying the government is what he does!! What he needs us to do is find evidence that homebirth is economically viable, and that it is cheaper to birth @ home than in hospital from the governments point of view. I know this info is out there but not sure where to find it.any suggestions or does any one already have it? Let me know Cheers Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Caring, Professional Midwifery Services Sydney Visit http://www.pregnancy.com.au -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit to subscribe or unsubscribe. Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Next Wednesday's Health Minister's Meeting - PI Insurance
The Hon C. J. Knowles, MP Minister for Health Level 33, Governor Macquarie Tower, 1 Farrer Place, Sydney 2000 Friday 27 July 2001 Dear Minister, I understand that professional indemnity insurance for GPs and obstetricians is on the agenda for the upcoming National Health Ministers Meeting on 1 August. I am writing to urge you to take the opportunity to extend the discussion of professional indemnity insurance to include midwive, given the current crisis in which independent midwives are unable to renew their PI policies. Midwives are specialists in normal birth. Obstetricians are specialists in abnormal birth (or birth with complications). Since the majority of women experience normal healthy pregnancies, midwives have a major role to play in providing maternity care during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. Independent midwives provide an essential service in Australia. They provide pregnant women with one on one care throughout their pregnancy, birth and early postnatal period. Experience in both Australia and oversees has scientifically proven that care of a woman by a known midwife significantly reduces the need for medical interventions in birth. This results in significantly REDUCED COSTS to the public health system of providing care for birthing women, as well as resulting in happier and healthier mothers and babies. Independent midwives are particularly invaluable in rural areas, where women are less easily able to access mainstream maternity care. Obstetricians, midwives and GPs all have distinct but complementary roles to play in providing care to pregnant and birthing women. It is ludicrous that governments appear to be considering assisting with the professional indemnity insurance of only the GPS and obstetricians, while excluding the other key maternity care professionals - midwives. I look forward to hearing of positive outcomes from the Health ministers meeting regarding the PI insurance crisis affecting midwives and birthing women Australia wide, and in New South Wales. sincerely, Barb Vernon Dr Barbara Vernon 'Stringybark' Carrington Road Murrumbateman NSW 2582 -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Fridays PI insurance meeting in Sydney
Hi all Posting this message for a colleague Jane I have a previous client whose husband is the head of government relations for Telstra. He has offered his services free of charge (usually 100's of thousands!) for Fridays meeting. Lobbying the government is what he does!! What he needs us to do is find evidence that homebirth is economically viable, and that it is cheaper to birth @ home than in hospital from the governments point of view. I know this info is out there but not sure where to find it.any suggestions or does any one already have it? Let me know Cheers Pregnancy, Birth and Beyond Caring, Professional Midwifery Services Sydney Visit http://www.pregnancy.com.au -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
PI Insurance - matter referred to Senator Meg Lees.
Hi all listers. I received this response today from Emma Murphy, on behalf of Senator Natasha Stott Despoja. Lets all cross our fingers and toes!!! Yours in birth, Tina Pettigrew Birthworks Independent CBE and aspiring B.Mid Midwife. Convenor, Aust B. Mid Student Collective. As we trust the flowers to open to new life - So we can trust birth Harriette Hartigan. --- Dear Tina, I appreciate your desire to see this matter tackled at a national level. I have forwarded this email to Senator Meg Lees, the Democrats Federal Health Spokesperson. best wishes, Emma -Original Message- From: [EMAIL PROTECTED] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]] Sent: Thursday, 19 July 2001 9:02 PM To: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED]; [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: Midwives lose their Professional Indemnity Insurance Thank you for your email. The Democrats, through our State Spokesperson, the Hon. Sandra Kanck MLC, have been very active on issues relating to midwifery, including, most recently, the decision of Guild Insurance to cease offering insurance cover for midwives. I have attached the text of a press release issued last week by Ms Kanck, for your interest. Yous sincerly, Emma Murphy Hello Emma, Thankyou for your response on behalf of Senator Stott Despoja and the Australian Democrats Re:The Professional Indemnity crisis facing Australian Midwives. I would like to thank the Democrats for their attention to this issue, particularly the efforts of the Hon Sandra Kanck MLC. Given that through the efforts of Sandra Kanck the Democrats have a real understanding of the issues facing midwifery in Australia today, I further request that the Democrats tackle the Howard Government on this issue so that a solution can be found. Under both State and Commonwealth Cultural Diversity Charters the governments of this country outline their responsibilities to provide health services which are accessible to a culturally diverse society as well as sensitive and responsive to diversity. In regard to birthing, the government is failing its responsibilities to Australian women and their families. The state of birthing services in this country is a disgrace, with Australian women and their babies being subjected to unjustifiable amounts of highly interventionist birthing practices, at great economical, physical and emotional costs to our society. Evidenced based maternity care demands that midwives be afforded greater roles and responsibilities in the provision of maternity care. Decades of research, state and federal government inquiries and reports have all supported this view. With Guild's decision to withdraw professional indemnity cover for midwives, we are again witnessing further disincentives to substitute models of care that have superior outcomes and are expected to be more cost effective. The key missing ingredient needed to move forward here has been strong political support and recognition of midwives and of the midwifery profession's capacity to dramatically improve the provision of the quality, continuity and accessibility of maternity services. The inability of independent midwives to secure any form of professional indemnity insurance, to protect themselves and the clients they serve, virtually wipes out any further opportunity for the expansion of midwfery-led models of care in this country. I would further like to bring to your attention to some of the resounding attitudes that face midwifery today. Attitudes such as the one displayed in the response pasted below, from a Senator of the Howard Government, Senator Alan Eggleston, in response to the professional indemnity crisis. Senator Eggleston's response however misguided, misinformed and outright lacking of any substance - is powerful and resonates of the fear and mistrust of woman's innate ability to safely and joyously birth their babies. Senator's Eggleston's response is a sad reflection of the respect for women in our society and perpetuates the myths surrounding homebirth and further denigrates women's choice of a safe, responsible birth choice. The women and midwives of Australia need assistance to tackle the likes of Senator Eggleston and his ilk - We call on the Australian Democrats to help ensure that our democratic rights as birthing women to safe and responsible birth choices is upheld in this country. Yours in birth, Tina Pettigrew Birthworks Independent CBE and aspiring B.Mid Midwife. Convenor, Aust B. Mid Student Collective. -Original Message- From: Eggleston, Alan (Senator) [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: 'Sue Cooper' [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Thursday, July 19, 2001 2:44 PM Subject: RE: Independent Midwives YOU SHOULD THANK THE LORD YOU DID NOT HAVE ANY COMPLICATIONS SUCH AS A SHOULDER DYSTOCIA OR A HAEMORAGE ... WOMEN HAVE
Re: Strategy meeting re: PI insurance for midwives
As a multi skilled passionate rural midwife nurse I am an active member of both the NSWNA NSWMA. I have just returned from the NSWNA Annual General Conference where I raised the issue of professional indemnity insurance. I was assured that the NSWNA is working closely with the NSWMA/ACMI to address this inequitable outrageous situation is seeking legal opinion on the best way forward. Keep up the struggle. Liz McCall - Original Message - From: Virginia Miltrup [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, July 18, 2001 8:10 PM Subject: Strategy meeting re: PI insurance for midwives Sydney venue. Interested persons and groups are invited to a strategic planning session to discuss the midwives insurance issue. The meeting's objective is to consider possible solutions and to prioritise what actions are necessary to achieve them. A great deal of fantastic work has been done to date. It is hoped that by involving both consumer and midwifery groups in this session we can be even more effective by pooling our resources and working cooperatively to gain further momentum. Meeting outcomes will be posted to ozmidwifery to enable everyone to benefit and to add further comments where appropriate. The meeting will be held on Friday 27 July 2001 from 7pm to 9pm. Venue: Valhalla Room, Dundas Valley Rugby Union Football Club 35 Quarry Rd, Dundas Valley (02 9638 4589). Tea coffee available for $1.50. RSVP to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Meeting updates will be available on the news and events page at: www.homebirthaccesssydney.com.au This meeting is being sponsored by the Australian Society of Independent Midwives and Homebirth Access Sydney. Regards Virginia Miltrup Homebirth Access Sydney _ Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
midwives and PI insurance in the media
Dear all There are a couple of articles coming up, that you may be able to look out for. Melbourne's Sunday Age is doing a health feature this week, on Sunday - interviewed me and a client, Monica, and got good pics of Monica and her (first) baby Lois who is 10 days old, born in a private hospital in Melbourne. Nursing Review responded to the faxed press release, and have done an interview. I don't get this paper, so if anyone sees it, please put the message out through the list. Somebody asked me if there is any point in sending letters out, when the press release has already been sent. All the advice we have is YES. Use your own words, write about your own situation and why you are outraged by the situation that restricts midwives from practice in hospitals, and restricts women from choosing their own midwife. The joint Press Release and other information that has been posted on this list can help everyone to focus on the real issues. Use the Press Release if you don't have the confidence to write your own statement. The key strategic people for each one of us to contact are: * The members of parliament (State and Federal) for the electorate in which you live * The Ministers for health (State and Federal) * Other politicians with an interest in women's policies, community issues * Newspaper reporters, particularly health As I have said before, this is an issue for ALL midwifery, and ALL women/consumers. Please act on this. Don't try to offer a solution, just demand that a solution be found! Joy Johnston -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Strategy meeting re: PI insurance for midwives
Sydney venue. Interested persons and groups are invited to a strategic planning session to discuss the midwives insurance issue. The meeting's objective is to consider possible solutions and to prioritise what actions are necessary to achieve them. A great deal of fantastic work has been done to date. It is hoped that by involving both consumer and midwifery groups in this session we can be even more effective by pooling our resources and working cooperatively to gain further momentum. Meeting outcomes will be posted to ozmidwifery to enable everyone to benefit and to add further comments where appropriate. The meeting will be held on Friday 27 July 2001 from 7pm to 9pm. Venue: Valhalla Room, Dundas Valley Rugby Union Football Club 35 Quarry Rd, Dundas Valley (02 9638 4589). Tea coffee available for $1.50. RSVP to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Meeting updates will be available on the news and events page at: www.homebirthaccesssydney.com.au This meeting is being sponsored by the Australian Society of Independent Midwives and Homebirth Access Sydney. Regards Virginia Miltrup Homebirth Access Sydney _ Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Fw: Strategy meeting re: PI insurance for midwives
- Original Message - From: Virginia Miltrup [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, July 18, 2001 6:10 PM Subject: Strategy meeting re: PI insurance for midwives Sydney venue. Interested persons and groups are invited to a strategic planning session to discuss the midwives insurance issue. The meeting's objective is to consider possible solutions and to prioritise what actions are necessary to achieve them. A great deal of fantastic work has been done to date. It is hoped that by involving both consumer and midwifery groups in this session we can be even more effective by pooling our resources and working cooperatively to gain further momentum. Meeting outcomes will be posted to ozmidwifery to enable everyone to benefit and to add further comments where appropriate. The meeting will be held on Friday 27 July 2001 from 7pm to 9pm. Venue: Valhalla Room, Dundas Valley Rugby Union Football Club 35 Quarry Rd, Dundas Valley (02 9638 4589). Tea coffee available for $1.50. RSVP to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Meeting updates will be available on the news and events page at: www.homebirthaccesssydney.com.au This meeting is being sponsored by the Australian Society of Independent Midwives and Homebirth Access Sydney. Regards Virginia Miltrup Homebirth Access Sydney _ Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Fw: Strategy meeting re: PI insurance for midwives
- Original Message - From: Virginia Miltrup [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Wednesday, July 18, 2001 6:10 PM Subject: Strategy meeting re: PI insurance for midwives Sydney venue. Interested persons and groups are invited to a strategic planning session to discuss the midwives insurance issue. The meeting's objective is to consider possible solutions and to prioritise what actions are necessary to achieve them. A great deal of fantastic work has been done to date. It is hoped that by involving both consumer and midwifery groups in this session we can be even more effective by pooling our resources and working cooperatively to gain further momentum. Meeting outcomes will be posted to ozmidwifery to enable everyone to benefit and to add further comments where appropriate. The meeting will be held on Friday 27 July 2001 from 7pm to 9pm. Venue: Valhalla Room, Dundas Valley Rugby Union Football Club 35 Quarry Rd, Dundas Valley (02 9638 4589). Tea coffee available for $1.50. RSVP to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Meeting updates will be available on the news and events page at: www.homebirthaccesssydney.com.au This meeting is being sponsored by the Australian Society of Independent Midwives and Homebirth Access Sydney. Regards Virginia Miltrup Homebirth Access Sydney _ Get Your Private, Free E-mail from MSN Hotmail at http://www.hotmail.com. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe. -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Fw: Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance for midwives - for distribution
- Original Message - From: Denise Hynd [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Cc: Bronwyn CMWA Keys [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, July 14, 2001 3:33 PM Subject: Re: Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance for midwives - for distribution Dear All Feel free to adapt my letter as below Denise Mr Brian Benger National Manager Guild Insurance Locked Bag 7 HAWTHORN VIC 3122 12 July 2001 Dear Mr Benger, I am writing to express my disappointment at the decision and manner in which Guild Insurance is to cease insuring independent midwives for the following reasons; Firstly I know that this arrangement with the Australian College of Midwives was made in concert with the Australian College of Nursing and the Australian-New Zealand Mental Health Nurses Association, yet it appears to be only the midwives Guild Insurance is ceasing to insure! Secondly I understand that many of the midwives who are affected by this decision have heard news of it through either the media or their colleagues and some through anxious clients being informed by the former! Thirdly because of your involvement with midwives and their professional organisation your company must be aware of the many of the professional and social obstacles Australian midwives and families who choose to provide/access safe responsible homebirth have and continue to encounter, yet you gave them no notice of your intention to create another! Fourthly this decision not only restricts the future legal practice of 80+ professionals but also places them at multiple risks should they continue to meet their present agreements with pregnant women due to birth before an alternative insurer can be found. Fifthly your company should also be cognisant of the limited and prohibitive options for midwives needing or wishing to stay insured but again you have taken this action with no notice. Sixthly you take an action which is contrary to the research substantiated social, health and therefore financial benefits of midwifery options of care, social capital benefits for all including the insurance industry! Finally I am disappointed that Guild has contributed to the general misinformation and scare campaign about birth being a highly litigious area (your General Manager, Mr David Brown's statement in The Sydney Morning Herald) without substantiation and contrary to the findings of the National Tito Report. Rather your company should be aware and promoting the reality that whenever families have been able to equitably access midwifery options of care they have done so in numbers which usually exceed supply (eg Community Midwifery Program WA, most Australian birth centres and midwifery team projects)! Additionally where such options are available universally (eg Netherlands and New Zealand) these nations have the lowest levels of mother and newborn morbidity and mortality which are extras health cost savings to the accompanying lower levels of interventionist pregnancy and childbirth care. It is a sad indication of the short sighted nature and management of the insurance industry and of your company in particular that you abandon insuring the most cost effective maternity care practitioners, as recognised by international research and the WHO, because currently you are making insufficient profits from them! Thus I urge you to reconsider your decision and return to support the right of birthing families to low intervention, women centred options of care. Yours sincerely Denise Hynd - Original Message - From: Johnston [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: ozmidwifery list (E-mail) [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Saturday, July 14, 2001 11:55 AM Subject: Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance for midwives - for distribution ***The person who sends this should add their own contact details if they are prepared to speak to the politician or media or whoever it is sent to. A joint statement by consumer and professional groups: The Maternity Coalition Inc, Australian Society of Independent Midwives, and the Association for Improvements in the Maternity Services. PRESS RELEASE 14 July 2001 Re: Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance for midwives Midwifery practice and the options women have for birth have been thrown into chaos by the crisis caused by the withdrawal of Guild Insurance from midwife PI Insurance policies. This is an issue that will affect all midwifery. The impact of this crisis will be to disadvantage women and their families across the country, as midwifery services will be withdrawn and further marginalised. We seek immediate intervention from both federal and state governments, to enable midwives to continue practising. Many concessions have been made in recent months to obstetric models of care, encouraging pregnant women to give birth in private hospitals, and promising to reduce the gap in rebates for doctors' fees. At the same time the basic option
Re: Fw: Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance for midwives - for distribution
Fantastic letter Denise Yours in birth, Tina Pettigrew Birthworks Independent CBE and aspiring B.Mid Midwife. Convenor, Aust B. Mid Student Collective. As we trust the flowers to open to new life - So we can trust birth Harriette Hartigan. --- -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit http://www.acegraphics.com.au to subscribe or unsubscribe.
Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance for midwives - for distribution
***The person who sends this should add their own contact details if they are prepared to speak to the politician or media or whoever it is sent to. A joint statement by consumer and professional groups: The Maternity Coalition Inc, Australian Society of Independent Midwives, and the Association for Improvements in the Maternity Services. PRESS RELEASE 14 July 2001 Re: Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance for midwives Midwifery practice and the options women have for birth have been thrown into chaos by the crisis caused by the withdrawal of Guild Insurance from midwife PI Insurance policies. This is an issue that will affect all midwifery. The impact of this crisis will be to disadvantage women and their families across the country, as midwifery services will be withdrawn and further marginalised. We seek immediate intervention from both federal and state governments, to enable midwives to continue practising. Many concessions have been made in recent months to obstetric models of care, encouraging pregnant women to give birth in private hospitals, and promising to reduce the gap in rebates for doctors' fees. At the same time the basic option of continuity of care from a known midwife - THE model that is strongly supported by research evidence - is being withdrawn. This is totally unacceptable. It defies logic, removes the midwife's livelihood, is not in the interests of the consumer, and is causing great distress to women who have made plans to give birth in the care of a midwife. Signed by Joy Johnston, a midwife representing the Maternity Coalition Inc [Tel: 03 9808 9614] Robin Payne, a consumer representing the Maternity Coalition Inc [Tel:03 9380 2863] Jan Robinson, a midwife representing Australian Society of Independent Midwives [Tel: 02 9546 4350] Toni Cannard, a consumer representing Association for Improvements in the Maternity Services [Tel: 03 3265 4137] Fact sheet: * Birth is not an illness. Internationally accepted best practice standards for optimal maternity services promote care by a known midwife during pregnancy, birth, and early parenting. This is fundamental to the definition of a midwife: one who provides primary care for women throughout the pregnancy and birth, and who collaborates with other practitioners (such as obstetric specialists) when a woman requires specialist or secondary levels of care. * The focus of the midwife's care is the woman, as an individual. The wellbeing and safety of the woman and her baby are paramount, and data from Australian and international reporting support midwifery care as protecting the safety of the woman and child. * Australian women have very limited access to the optimal standard of care. This is due to many social and professional factors, including the progressive medicalisation of pregnancy and birth over many years, together with the government funding monopoly that supports medical primary care and excludes most midwifery options of care. * A recent Australian Society of Independent Midwives (ASIM) survey of members revealed most of the membership was insured with Guild; two have been without insurance since their policies expired recently, and the rest will gradually become uninsured as their policies expire. A small proportion of ASIM midwives are insured with ANF (Australian Nursing Federation) Victoria and so far they are unaffected. There were five members who carried no professional insurance whatsoever. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN INSURANCE RUNS OUT? For those midwives no longer insured, there are two alternatives; * cease their private clinical practice, thereby requiring the women booked with them to make other arrangements, as well as the midwives losing their livelihood. * continue to practice without PI insurance ... this will mean that midwives who did have visiting/admitting rights in hospitals will no longer be able to attend their clients in hospitals and therefore reduce women's choice of birth venues to homebirth only. If an Independently Practising Midwife (IPM) always acts as a reasonable midwife would in any situation then they are unlikely to be a victim of a malpractice suit. However, the person who ultimately suffers when there are adverse outcomes is the woman who has a damaged baby and if there is no insurance the woman has little hope of any financial assistance for the rest of her baby's life. * We seek immediate action to address this crisis. Despite the best efforts of competent professionals in all settings (hospitals, birth centres and home), the unpredictable nature of birth, and of life itself, means that there may be adverse outcomes. We recommend government insurance arrangements that are made available to all who experience the dreadful cost of birth trauma! Women (and their families) deserve support through public insurance if they are the victim of bad outcomes from encounters with any health professionals. -- This mailing list
