Deutscher Hebammenverband

The Deutscher Hebammenverband e. V. (DHV) is the largest and most influential professional organization of midwives in Germany. Founded in 1885, the DHV has developed over more than 130 years into a strong and versatile representation of interests. The association includes the 16 state midwifery associations of the federal states and represents around 22,000 members, including employed and freelance midwives, family midwives, scientists, teachers, midwifery students, and students as well as midwifery-led facilities.

• Professional Political Representation: The DHV represents the professional political goals of midwives by advocating for their economic, professional, and political strengthening. It ensures that midwives are heard in legislative initiatives and negotiations with health insurance companies[1][2].
• Insurance Offers: The association offers its members a powerful professional liability insurance, an affordable legal protection insurance, and an exclusive framework agreement for a disability insurance. Midwifery students are insured free of charge during their training[1].
• Continuing Education and Services: The DHV offers a comprehensive program of continuing education, both in-person and in e-learning format. Members have access to the free e-learning platform OlGA[2].
• Network and Exchange: The German Midwives Congress and the professional magazine "Hebammenforum" serve as important platforms for exchange and networking[2].

The main mission of the DHV is to represent the interests of all midwives and to ensure the best possible care for women, families, and newborns during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. The association advocates for good working conditions in delivery rooms and in the out-of-hospital sector and strives for a strong voice in the health policy landscape[1][2].

The DHV is based on the values of solidarity, professional commitment, and patient-centered care. It supports midwives in their daily work and promotes the quality of obstetric care.

• Legal Establishment of Midwifery Delivery Rooms: The DHV has significantly contributed to the legal establishment of midwifery delivery rooms as part of the hospital reform. This initiative secures the financial and professional support of these facilities[2].
• Quality Management: The association has a certified management system according to DIN EN ISO 9001, which ensures compliance with high quality standards in processes and services[1].
• Critical Accompaniment of Reforms: The DHV accompanies and critiques health policy reforms to ensure that the needs of women, children, and families as well as the midwives themselves are taken into account[2].

The Deutscher Hebammenverband is a central and influential organization that advocates for the rights and interests of midwives in Germany. Through its comprehensive services, continuing education offerings, and political work, the DHV significantly contributes to the quality and sustainability of obstetric care. As the umbrella organization of the 16 state midwifery associations, the DHV is a strong and reliable community for midwives and their patients.

• 1 - https://hebammenverband.de/der-dhv
• 2 - https://hebammenverband.de
• 3 - https://www.bundesgesundheitsministerium.de/themen/gesundheitswesen/gesundheitsberufe/hebammen.html
• 4 - https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hebamme
• 5 - https://www.xing.com/pages/deutscher-hebammenverband-e-v/about_us?sc_o=entity_page_about_us_learn_more_link