Family physicians providing rural obstetric care makes good business sense

Abstract

Family physicians practicing rural obstetrics makes great business sense. Obstetrical complications and outcomes for family physicians are comparable to those of OB/ GYN's. The cost of malpractice insurance for family physicians who offer full service obstetrical care in Alabama is significantly less than for an OB/GYN. Family physicians can offer comparable obstetrical care to OB/GYN's at a fraction of the cost. Family Physicians who practice obstetrics are almost never sued because of their long-term relationship with the patient and family. Family physicians have lower cesarean section rates than OB/GYNs primarily because they perform more vaginal births after cesarean sections (VBAC) which translate into shorter hospital stays, fewer complications, less expensive care, fewer operative risks and hopefully, happier patients.

Retaining the perinatal care workforce: Lessons learned from experienced physicians who no longer attend deliveries

“…Not only do FPs have lower rates of Cesarean sections than OB/GYNs, but they also build long-term relationships with their patients and communities. 24 FPs may care for whole families before and after pregnancy and birth which creates a unique birth experience based on a strong relationship. 25,26 The decrease in FPs participating in the perinatal workforce is particularly concerning because FPs provide most of the perinatal care for rural people.…”

“…FPs are an important part of the perinatal care workforce. Not only do FPs have lower rates of Cesarean sections than OB/GYNs, but they also build long‐term relationships with their patients and communities 24 . FPs may care for whole families before and after pregnancy and birth which creates a unique birth experience based on a strong relationship 25,26 …”