abstract
- A philosophy of family-centered maternity and newborn care requires that there be open communication between a woman, her family and health professionals; that the woman be able to choose people to support her, and have those people present during labour and birth; and that the mother and infant remain in close contact whenever possible following birth. Using data from a 1993 survey, the authors conclude that Canadian hospitals still have a long way to go before putting these ideals into practice.