Jane Raymond
I always had regular meetings with my supervisors as well as twice yearly formal seminars.
Year of expected completion: 2013
Why did you want to undertake a research degree?
For enjoyment! I love writing and find the whole process of enquiry stimulating.
Why did you choose UTS?
A great track record for higher degrees in midwifery, excellent supervision and a lively research culture
What are you personally gaining from your studies?
A deeper understanding of what works and why, during the process of service development, both for staff and for users of the service. It is also a personal journey - I am learning about what motivates and rewards me in a professional sense.
What is it like to be a research student at UTS?
Very supportive – through excellent supervision and access to other students and supervisors through regular meetings and twice yearly formal seminars.
Is there any advice you would give to students who are studying this program?
It can be lonely being a higher research degree student and sometimes you feel that you don’t know what to do next. Take up the opportunities for meeting regularly with supervisors and students for the purpose of gaining advice and support.
What is your research topic and have you had findings or results?
Development and evaluation of a group-based model of care for obese pregnant women in South East Sydney and the Central Coast Local Health Networks. The “set up” of the models within the previous two Area Health Services was funded (for $100,000 each) by the NSW Department of Health. The model is a ‘one stop shop’ for antenatal care, led by midwives and involving obstetric and allied health input and commenced in March 2010. The aim of the model is to help obese women to limit their weight gain during pregnancy, using guidance and encouragement for healthy eating and increased activity during pregnancy. The women in each group are all at the same stage of pregnancy, form close friendships and learn from each other’s successes through their pregnancies. Preliminary results suggest that the women very much enjoy the new model of care, and are satisfied with their weight gain and birth experiences. The clinical outcomes are currently being analysed, and an evaluation report has been recently submitted to the NSW Department of Health.
What do you intend to do after you complete your degree?
I hope to combine my interest in research and practice development in the maternity services.
