11. Case Study: Anticipation of Shared Responsibility

At each routine clinic visit, Tasmin finds Florence to be healthy. Her pregnancy progresses normally. They continue to plan for a vaginal birth at home.

At Florence's 32-week clinic visit, Tasmin informs Florence that her mother is ill and that she has to leave for a period of time to take care of her. This means that she is likely to be away when Florence is expected to give birth. Tasmin explains that while she is away, her colleague, Riann, will be taking over her caseload and will provide Florence with any remaining pregnancy, birth, and/or postpartum care.  

Florence has a few questions about whether the providers have similar professional approaches to care. Will she still be able to carry out her birth plan as it was discussed with Tasmin during her prenatal visits? When will she meet Riann? What is she like? Is she comfortable with natural child birth? Tasmin assures her that Riann’s office will call her to arrange an appointment so that they can meet before the birth and discuss any concerns and particular plans Florence has for her birth. She reminds Florence of her long-term arrangement with Riann. She explains that they have similar approaches to care and enjoy working together in this way.