The feasibility of caseload midwifery in rural Australia: A literature review

Background: Caseload midwifery is a continuity of care(r) model being implemented in an increasing number of Australian maternity settings. Question for review: is caseload midwifery a feasible model for introducing into the rural Australian context? Method: Integrative literature review. Findings: Four main categories were identified and these include the evidence for caseload midwifery; applicability to the rural context; experiences of registered and student midwives and implementation of caseload midwifery models. Conclusion: There is evidence to support caseload midwifery and its implementation in the rural setting. However, literature to date is limited by small participant size and possible selection bias. Further research, including rural midwives' expectations and experience of caseload midwifery may lead to improved sustainability of midwifery care for rural Australian women. (C) 2012 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Australia (a division of Reed International Books Australia Pty Ltd). All rights reserved.