title: Planning birth centres.
abstract: This paper draws attention to the different definitions of 'birth centre', and the lack of consensus regarding the physical and organisational characteristics that distinguish a birth centre from conventional labour suites. Two case studies of decision-making about the location of a new birth centre are presented; they illustrate the need to take account of the views of each client and professional group concerned. The need for integrating organisational development with physical planning procedures is emphasised.
mesh_terms: D001315:Australia; D003659:Decision Making, Organizational; D003696:Delivery Rooms / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005260:Female; D006752:Hospital Planning; D006801:Humans; D009873:Operating Rooms / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010934:Planning Techniques; D011247:Pregnancy