General News
5 February, 2026
Research sheds light on rural maternity care
NEW research led by an East Grampians Health Service General Practitioner (GP) obstetrician is shining a light on the motivations and challenges of doctors providing maternity care in rural Australia.
The study, recently published in the December issue of the Australian Journal of Rural Health, explored why GP obstetricians (GPs who have additional skills and training in caring for mothers and babies during pregnancy and after birth) choose to provide care during labour and delivery.
The research found that of the 95 GP obstetricians who responded to the survey, most were women in their mid-30s to mid-40s who were often balancing clinical work with caregiving responsibilities. Around 70 per cent were providing care during labour and delivery, describing it as professionally rewarding and central to coordinated care.
However, those providing labour and delivery care reported high on-call demands, limited professional support, challenging work environments, and concerns about sustainability. Others said they wanted to provide care during labour and delivery but were prevented by difficulties accessing training, accreditation requirements, lack of a team model, or family commitments.
The findings highlight the need for better support for GP obstetricians, including flexible work arrangements, improved access to skills maintenance and upskilling, and stronger collaboration between GP obstetricians, midwives, and specialist teams.
“I am hoping the results of the research can be helpful and informative for recruitment of GP obstetricians to rural hospitals,” lead author Dr Winnie Yum, a GP Obstetrician at EGHS, said.
Dr Yum also acknowledged the EGHS Emerging Researcher grant which supported her research.
“EGHS is committed to the rural GPO model of care and to maintaining birthing services locally,” EGHS Director of Clinical Services Rebecca Peters said.
Read More: Ararat