The Northern Territory government is currently reviewing a $1.1 million contract awarded to Claire Marks, a midwife whose registration comes with specific conditions. This evaluation follows rising concerns from the medical community regarding the ongoing shortage of maternity services in the region.
Marks, who directs Midwives in Darwin, was granted this government funding in September to offer private midwifery services for a duration of one year. This development coincided with an investigation by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, which resulted in imposed restrictions on her ability to practice without supervision.
The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), which oversees the board, did not disclose the exact reasons behind these restrictions. However, it noted that such measures are implemented when deemed necessary to safeguard public health. As part of these conditions, Marks is required to work alongside an approved mentor to enhance her management of care and maternal observations, which are crucial for timely interventions. Additionally, she is prohibited from practicing independently.
Last month, NT Health Minister Steven Edgington did not address inquiries regarding the government’s rationale for maintaining the contract. A spokesperson from the Department of Health, however, defended the procurement process, asserting that it adhered to the government’s guidelines and mentioning that the matter is under review.
In spite of the ongoing scrutiny, Midwives in Darwin announced an expansion of their team by three members via social media. While Marks has refrained from commenting, she has previously indicated that her role would be one of oversight rather than direct clinical service provision.
John Zorbas, president of the Australian Medical Association in the Northern Territory, expressed concern over the midwifery contract, emphasizing that the regulatory body has clear protocols for intervention based on public safety. He questioned how the stipulations of the contract could be satisfactorily fulfilled under the existing supervision requirements.
With the collapse of local birthing services affecting families, Zorbas called for immediate decisions regarding the future of maternity care in the Northern Territory. He stressed the need for obstetricians—who bear the ultimate responsibility for maternity care—to be actively involved in discussions about the contract and its associated risks.
In response to these concerns, an NT Health spokesperson reiterated the department’s commitment to delivering high-quality and safe care for all residents of the territory.
