Types of Practice
Solo Medical Practice
In a solo medical practice, a practitioner works alone. The practitioner usually has a cover in case he/she is unavailable. Family practitioners and obstetricians are likely to be solo practitioners while nurse-midwives are often required to collaborate with a physician.
Advantage. The major advantage in choosing a solo practitioner is that you get to develop a relationship with your doctor, since you see the same person every time.
Disadvantage. The disadvantage is that you may be caught unawares if the doctor is suddenly unavailable. But you can always remedy the problem by making sure you meet your practitioner’s potential cover too. Yet another drawback is if you suddenly realize that you don’t like the practitioner that you chose. Breaking up the ties and finding a new one will be a tad more difficult.
Group Medical Practice or Partnership
In a group medical practice or partnership, two or more practitioners from the same specialty come together for joint efforts in caring for patients. They usually attend to patients on a rotating routine. Family practitioners and obstetricians often make up these arrangements.
Advantage. The big advantage when dealing with this kind of arrangement is that you get to know not only one, but many doctors during your pregnancy. This means that whenever you have those sudden pains and would need to see a doctor, you are sure to find a familiar face around. You also get the advantage of hearing many different viewpoints (though this can be a disadvantage, depending on your preference).
Disadvantage. One major disadvantage is that you will not have a say on who’s going to attend to your delivery. And you may not like some of the attending practitioners.
Combination Practice
The combination practice is much similar to a group medical practice. The difference is that it also includes nurse-midwives in the group.
Advantage. As expected, it offers the same advantages with that of a group/partnership practice. It has an added advantage though—you get the attention of doting midwives on your visits. And you may actually get mid-wife coaching on your delivery. In a nutshell, you get the best of both worlds—the comfort nurse-midwives offer and the security only doctors can give.
Disadvantage. Same with group medical practice or partnership.
Birth Center- or Maternity-Center Practice
Centers of this type are mostly made-up of certified nurse-midwives, with physicians only showing up when needed. Maternity centers welcome only low-risk patients.
Advantage. This type of arrangement is most advantageous to women who hold special preference for midwives’ service.
Disadvantage. Major disadvantages arise if you suddenly find yourself acquiring risks. You will have to be moved to a hospital. And you will have to deal with a doctor that’s a total stranger.
Independent Certified Nurse-Midwife Practice
Some CNMs are allowed to operate on their own. They do have to have a consulting physician, in case complications arise.
Advantage. The advantage is that you get personalized care. And this is especially beneficial for those who prefer home birthing.
Disadvantage. The disadvantage is if complications suddenly arise and the physician is nowhere near.
Relax and make your pregnancy the joyous occasion that it is!
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