Frequently Asked Questions
You Ask — We Answer
What is a midwife?
Midwives are experts in healthy pregnancy and birth.
In BC, registered midwives offer primary maternity care to healthy pregnant clients and their newborn babies from early pregnancy, through labour and birth, until about six weeks following delivery. They practice evidence-based, client-centered perinatal and newborn care and are an established part of the BC health care system.
Midwives listen, observe, educate, guide and care. They order and interpret tests and screen for physical, psychological, emotional and social health. They are with clients during pregnancy, labour and birth, normal and complicated. They catch babies. They do home visits after the baby is born. They help with baby feeding and adjusting to life with a new baby. They work together and with other health professionals.
Do I need a referral from my doctor?
No referral is required.
When should I call to book an appointment?
Contact us as soon as you know you are pregnant. You can call at any time as space may become available or we may not be full for any given month. We usually do not take transfers if you have had more than one visit with your family doctor.
Can you write off work notes, insurance forms, etc.?
Registered midwives can complete all off work notes and insurance forms. Sage Community Midwives requires seven (7) days notice of any requests for notes, forms, or letters pertaining to your pregnancy. As these are non-insured services, and not covered by MSP, we have implemented fees for these requests. It is not our intention to profit from our clients but meant to recoup the costs associated with your midwives and administrations time to complete your request.
If a doctor is managing the medical concern for which you are off work, this doctor, or the practitioner responsible for follow-up should be seen for any off work letter requests. Your midwife is unable to write a letter for any medical concerns for which she is not providing care or is not the provider responsible for follow-up.
Will I have access to all the usual tests and medications?
Yes, registered midwives offer a complete panel of prenatal laboratory tests, genetic screening and diagnosis options, ultrasound imaging and many other tests and procedures for clients and newborns. A midwife's scope of practice includes the use of many medications that may be indicated in pregnancy, during labour—including emergency situations or pain medication—and following birth. If medication or testing is required outside of this scope of practice, midwives consult with and refer to doctors as indicated for more specialized care.
Have more questions?
Visit BCMidwives.com for more in depth information.