Generative Artificial Intelligence in Midwifery Workforce Development: A Scoping Review Identifying an Evidence Gap.

Abstract

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly explored across health care for clinical decision-making and education. Within digital health, workforce readiness and digital capability are recognized as critical to successful technology implementation. Midwifery faces persistent workforce challenges including limited protected learning time, restricted leadership development opportunities, and unclear career pathways, yet it is unclear whether generative AI has been examined as a tool to support midwifery workforce development. A scoping review was conducted following the framework of Arksey and O'Malley with PRISMA-ScR reporting. EBSCOhost (CINAHL, MEDLINE, ERIC), Google Scholar, and Elicit were searched for English-language studies published between 2015 and 2026 examining AI in midwifery in relation to at least one of the following: post-registration education, workforce, professional development, leadership, and career progression. Findings were synthesized using framework analysis. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Research focused predominantly on clinical decision-making, predictive models, and undergraduate education. No studies examined generative AI tools to support practicing midwives' professional development, leadership, or career progression. Attitudes towards AI varied with digital literacy, generational cohort, and ethical concerns. Generative AI in midwifery workforce development is unexamined in the empirical literature. Further research is required to understand acceptability, risks, and value within an ethically governed implementation framework.