GP shared care

Women with a low-risk pregnancy may choose to receive most of their pregnancy and postnatal care from their General Practitioner (GP), with support from the Gold Coast Health maternity team.

View the list of participating GPs who have completed the GP Maternity Alignment Program.

This model of care offers continuity and convenience, allowing you to see a healthcare professional who may already know your medical history, personal circumstances and healthcare needs. Appointments are provided in the community, closer to home, and may offer greater flexibility for you and your support person. Your GP can also continue to care for you and your baby after birth.

Under the GP Shared Care model, you will attend key appointments with the Gold Coast Health maternity team, including:

• A booking appointment with a midwife, usually between 16 and 20 weeks of pregnancy
• Midwife reviews at approximately 36 weeks and 40 weeks of pregnancy

Most routine antenatal and postnatal appointments will be provided by your GP. Throughout your pregnancy, your GP and maternity team will work together to ensure your care is coordinated and tailored to your needs.

GPs who provide antenatal shared care on the Gold Coast can participate in the GP Maternity Alignment Program.

Delivered by the Gold Coast Health Obstetrics team, the program supports GPs to provide high-quality shared maternity care through established clinical guidelines, ongoing education and access to specialist obstetric advice when required.

The program helps ensure consistent, coordinated care between participating GPs and the hospital maternity team.