Who holds clinical responsibility for maternity care after a transfer has been processed to a specialist?

The obstetrician holds clinical responsibility for maternity care after a transfer has been processed to a specialist. When a woman requires a level of care beyond what a Lead Maternity Carer (LMC) midwife can provide, the transfer to an obstetrician signifies that more specialized medical intervention or oversight is necessary for either the mother or the baby.

Obstetricians, as specialists in pregnancy and childbirth, have the expertise to manage complex cases effectively. Their training prepares them to handle potential complications and ensure the safety of both the mother and the child. Therefore, upon transfer, the responsibility for clinical decision-making and care shifts from the LMC midwife to the obstetrician, who then takes the lead in managing the situation.

The roles of the registered nurse and the general practitioner are typically supportive in this context. While they may provide care, they do not hold the primary responsibility once an obstetrician is involved. The LMC midwife retains a role in supporting and communicating with the patient but does not manage care after the transfer.