International Day of the Midwife 2024

To celebrate International Day of the Midwife we spoke to Clinical Engagement and Implementation Manager, Lisa Charlesworth.

Lisa, who trained as a midwife, makes up part of a myriad of diverse expertise, experience, clinical rigour, passion and insight within NHS Supply Chain helping to shape the services and products we provide to the front line to deliver patient care.

What does Midwifery mean to you and what changes have you seen since you qualified?

I undertook my midwifery training over 30 years ago, it has evolved significantly since then, reflecting advancements in medical knowledge and technology. Three decades ago, midwives had to be qualified nurses and then complete an 18 month course primarily learning from on-the-job training, with limited classroom education programs.

Today, aspiring midwives pursue an independent accredited degree programs that provide a comprehensive education in anatomy, physiology, childbirth techniques, and patient care.

Midwives are increasingly valued for their expertise in natural childbirth and holistic care practices. They work collaboratively with obstetricians and other healthcare professionals to provide personalized care to expectant mothers and new-borns.

Overall, the field of midwifery has made great strides in professionalism and education over the past three decades, the goal that all women receive the highest quality care during pregnancy and childbirth. There have been many innovations and developments of new techniques which make easier and birth safer.

What led to your career at NHS Supply Chain?

I joined NHS Supply Chain to be a clinical voice, after working clinically on the wards and within industry it was evident that products were purchased on price rather that quality and suitability for purpose and I wanted to help change this view.