On the path to reclaiming Indigenous midwifery: Co‐creating the Maternal Infant Support Worker pilot program

• Published in: International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics
• Main Authors: Jumah, Naana Afua, Tyler, Leanne, Turuba, Roxanne, Bishop, Lisa, Tait, Mary, Renaud, Anne, Mushquash, Christopher
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Wiley 2021
• Subjects: Canada; First Nations
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ijgo.13918; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ijgo.13918; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full-xml/10.1002/ijgo.13918; https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ijgo.13918

Abstract Objective The aim of the Maternal Infant Support Worker (MiSW) pilot program was to implement a virtual training program for lay maternal–infant health providers in remote First Nations communities in Northwestern Ontario, Canada. Methods The MiSW pilot program was administered jointly by a community college and a university and consisted of a 20‐week virtual course followed by a 9‐month mentored work placement in the community. Results The MiSW pilot program was delivered successfully; 11 of 13 participants received a certificate from a community college. MiSWs provided culturally and linguistically appropriate care to women, infants, and families in their respective communities. MiSWs provided doula support in their communities—a first for our region since the policy of forced evacuation for birth was implemented. MiSWs developed a community of practice for ongoing education, as well as to support each other in their work. Conclusion The MiSW pilot program demonstrated that it is possible to provide a virtual training program and then provide continued virtual mentorship as the participants work in their First Nations communities. By prioritizing Indigenous voices above those of the research team, we were able to gain the trust of the MiSWs and maintain engagement with communities.