Results from the first statewide study of birthing units supported by GP–obstetricians since the introduction of Queensland’s rural generalist pathway are reassuring on measures of quality and safety, researchers say.

Publication of their study follows a formal application by the RACGP and ACRRM in December to have rural generalist medicine recognised by the Medical Board of Australia as a general practice subspecialty.

In a bid to provide updated information on outcomes from GP-supported birthing units, the team from Gympie Hospital and the University of the Sunshine Coast has looked at data covering more than 6000 women and babies seen at 21 birthing units in Queensland during 2017.

The outcomes from the level 3 units, which do not have special care nurseries or specialist paediatric cover, were compared with state public hospital averages provided by Queensland Health.