The importance of collaboration in maternity care in the U.S. is apparent with deficits in both care disparities and quality, despite disproportionate expenditures to improve care. Utilization of experienced, well-trained clinicians, such as obstetric and midwife hospitalists, offers a strategy to improve outcomes, reduce cost, and enhance patient…

Context: Past research has documented rural physician and health care professional shortages. Purpose: Rural hospital chief executive officers' (CEOs') reported shortages of health professionals and perceptions about recruiting and retention are compared in Illinois and Arkansas. Methods: A survey, previously developed and sent to 28 CEOs in…

This book was intended to serve as a comprehensive resource volume on birth alternatives. Specific topics covered include: (1) the process of labor; (2) ideas of natural childbirth; (3) drugs, devices, surgeries, and procedures; (4) midwives and other delivery room participants; (5) facilities for giving birth: hospital, home and maternity center;…