An exploratory cost-effectiveness analysis: Comparison between a midwife-led birth unit and a standard obstetric unit within the same hospital in Belgium.

Objective: The objective of this study was to compare midwife-led and consultant-led obstetrical care for women with uncomplicated low-risk pregnancies. We estimated costs and maternal outcomes in both units to achieve a cost-effectiveness ratio.

Design: The cost-analysis was made according to the "intention to treat" concept in order to minimize bias associated with the non-randomization of participants.