In what circumstances can a midwife refuse care to a client?

A midwife can refuse care to a client if they believe they cannot provide safe, appropriate, or ethical care. This principle is fundamental to midwifery practice as it prioritizes the health and safety of the client, ensuring that care provided meets professional standards. Midwives are obligated to act in the best interests of their clients and must ensure they have the appropriate knowledge, skills, and resources to deliver care effectively. If circumstances arise—such as conflicts of interest, personal limitations, or situations that compromise the quality of care—the midwife has a professional and ethical responsibility to withdraw from providing care to protect the wellbeing of the client.

In contrast, logistical factors such as a client being late to an appointment or a midwife being busy with other clients do not justify refusal of care. Care should still be prioritized based on clinical needs rather than time management issues. Likewise, disagreements with a client’s opinions or decisions do not legally or ethically warrant the refusal of care; rather, midwives are encouraged to facilitate open communication and collaborate with clients to achieve the best outcomes.