2024 Volume 38 Issue 2 Pages 294-303
Purpose
This study aimed to elucidate the operational characteristics of maternity homes in Prefecture A, where the number of such facilities is increasing, with the goal of contributing to the sustainability and development of maternity homes in Japan.
Methods
This study targeted six midwives, who are either founders or representatives of maternity homes in Prefecture A. We conducted semi-structured interviews to gather information on the current situation and challenges in the operation of maternity homes. Through participant narratives, distinctive features of maternity homes in Prefecture A were identified. Based on this, solutions to ensure the continued sustainability and development of maternity homes in Japan are proposed.
Results
The characteristics of maternity homes in A Prefecture include “Various operating structures” depending on the areas. First, there is a publicly operated maternity home in Prefecture A. Additionally, among privately owned maternity homes, there are two patterns: those managed by multiple midwives handling several deliveries, and those run by individual midwives collaborating to manage deliveries in the community. The background for the establishment of diverse operational structures was influenced by the centralization of birthing facilities in certain areas. Furthermore, in areas affected by centralization, there were instances of women raising their voices to secure birthing places. The contractual relationships between maternity homes and back-up obstetricians/medical institutions were generally satisfactory，with only few regions facing challenges in securing contracts. There is one region where the prefectural midwives' association had contracts with appointed medical institution, in the vicinity. It has become clear that challenges for the survive and development of maternity homes include the training of practicing midwives and financial issues.
Conclusion
For maternity homes to survive and thrive in the future, it is essential to understand the needs of mothers, promote collaboration among midwives, and collaborate with healthcare institutions and authorities to establish maternity homes tailored to the perinatal healthcare system of the respective the areas.
