Australia's Insurance Crisis and Self-Employed Midwives
Author Information
Author(s): Milena Canil
Primary Institution: La Trobe University
Hypothesis
Why have Australian governments been reluctant to protect the economic viability of self-employed midwives compared to other small business operators?
Conclusion
The study reveals that Australian governments have shown a reluctance to assist self-employed midwives in securing professional indemnity insurance, unlike their support for the medical profession during similar crises.
Supporting Evidence
- Self-employed midwives are the only health professionals unable to secure professional indemnity insurance in Australia.
- Government support for the medical profession during the insurance crisis was significantly greater than for midwives.
- Media coverage focused more on the medical profession's issues, overshadowing the plight of midwives.
Takeaway
This study looks at why midwives in Australia can't get insurance like other small businesses, and it finds that the government has not helped them as much as it has helped doctors.
Methodology
A mixed-method approach was used, including a review of articles from major Australian newspapers from January 2001 to December 2005.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in media reporting may have influenced public perception and government response.
Limitations
The study is limited to media reports and may not capture all perspectives or data on the issue.
Participant Demographics
The study focuses on self-employed midwives in Australia.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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