October 2023 – March 2025
The Maternity and Newborn Learning Health Network Improvement Program supported Victorian maternity services to implement two evidence-based bundles of care: the Safer Baby Bundle and the Perineal Protection Bundle. These bundles aim to reduce preventable stillbirth and severe perineal tears.
Using a modified collaborative model, the program offered coaching, data support, and access to clinical and consumer expertise. Participating services reported improvements in key process measures, including comprehensive perineal assessments and antenatal care practices such as Ask, Advise, Help and SFH charting.
While the program was less resource-intensive than previous collaboratives, challenges such as staffing pressures, consumer engagement, and manual data collection highlighted the need for continued flexible improvement approaches and stronger system supports.
Next Steps
We will continue engaging with the sector to support future improvement efforts and the implementation of evidence-based care bundles.
For more information, contact maternitynewborn@safercare.vic.gov.au.