PURPOSE:
The AABC International Committee is developing a structured international questionnaire to more systematically assess country-specific needs, readiness, and interest in establishing midwife-led birth centers and/or national birth center organizations. The goal is to inform the development of tailored support tools, partnerships, and advocacy strategies to expand access to safe, respectful, and culturally appropriate maternity care globally. This presentation will share insights from the initial data collection and outline the design and dissemination plan for the upcoming global survey/questionnaire.

DISCUSSION:
Based on data collected by AABC at the 2023 ICM in Bali, as well as one-on-one conversations with people internationally, we see growing global interest in midwifery-led birth centers and the birth center model of care. ICM conducted a case study in four countries to identify key components needed for a successful MLBC in low- to middle-income countries. AABC’s international questionnaire will allow us to identify where countries stand with meeting those components for their MLBCs. Additionally, the questionnaire will inform what phase of establishment and integration of MLBCs those countries are in. This data will allow for a tailored approach to supporting the growth and expansion of MLBCs globally.

EVIDENCE WHERE RELEVANT:
Survey collected in Bali indicated over 35 international respondents highly interested in an international How to Start a Birth Center curriculum. Additionally, other countries have met with AABC to learn more about establishing a national MLBC organization.

KEY MESSAGE:
Every country works within different parameters for the practice of midwifery and integration of MLBCs into their healthcare systems. In order to expand the creation of and access to MLBCs globally, it is important to understand the parameters that currently exist for each country to offer a more individualized approach. MLBC - implementation