A recent scientific study published in the journal Midwifery indicates that the midwifery profession in Saudi Arabia faces profound challenges, extending beyond workforce shortages to a lack of clear definition of the professional role within society and the healthcare system. According to the study, which received ethical approval from King Saud University, the world is experiencing a deficit estimated at around one million midwives, despite midwives being capable of providing up to 90% of essential maternal health services, positioning the midwifery profession as vital within modern healthcare systems.
The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia records approximately 600,000 births annually, while estimates indicate the need for about 20,000 midwives according to international standards. However, the number of midwives remains limited, with a significant reliance on non-Saudi personnel, as the majority of practitioners hold a diploma qualification, reflecting a clear gap between actual demand and operational capacity.
Details of the Findings
The study showed that the bachelor’s degree programs in midwifery launched in the Kingdom in 2020 represent an important step towards developing the profession, yet they remain limited in terms of reach and distribution. These programs face challenges related to inadequate clinical training and a lack of practical application opportunities, affecting the readiness and professional confidence of graduates within the workplace.
Results from the study revealed that midwifery students possess a strong internal motivation to choose the profession, linked to a philosophy of comprehensive care for women and the independence of the professional role. Additionally, the alignment of the profession with cultural and religious values enhances this motivation; however, the professional reality suffers from a lack of community awareness regarding the role of midwives and confusion with other medical specialties, leading to ambiguity in professional identity within the healthcare system.
Context and Background
The challenges facing the midwifery profession extend beyond the educational aspect, as the profession suffers from ambiguity in regulations and weak institutional recognition. This situation places midwives in a marginal position within some healthcare institutions, despite the important role they can play in improving the quality of maternal and child health services.
In light of these findings, the study called for the necessity of raising community awareness about the midwifery profession, enhancing clinical training, expanding educational programs, and establishing midwife-led clinics. It also recommended developing health policies that ensure clarity of the professional role and its independence within the healthcare system.
Implications and Impact
The study concludes that the real challenge facing the midwifery profession in Saudi Arabia lies not only in numbers but in building a clear professional identity capable of integrating within the healthcare system. This is essential for achieving a direct impact on the quality of healthcare in line with the objectives of developing the health sector in Vision 2030.
Enhancing the midwifery profession can contribute to improving maternal and child health indicators and reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates, reflecting the importance of this profession in achieving sustainable health development.
Impact on the Arab Region
Saudi Arabia's experience in promoting the midwifery profession serves as a model that other Arab countries facing similar challenges in maternal and child health can benefit from. Raising awareness of the role of midwives and providing appropriate training can contribute to improving the quality of healthcare in the region.
In conclusion, it requires a concerted effort among educational institutions, health organizations, and the community to raise awareness of the importance of the midwifery profession and provide the necessary support for its development, ensuring the delivery of comprehensive and effective health services.