MIDWIFERY IN WASHINGTON STATE

Midwives attend births in a variety of settings, including homes, freestanding birth centers, and hospitals in accordance with the standards of practice of the State of Washington.

Washington State recognizes two separate paths for professional midwives:

• Licensed Midwives (LMs) complete an accredited midwifery program and are licensed by the State of Washington.

• Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are educated in the two disciplines of nursing and midwifery, are certified by the American College of Nurse-Midwives, and are licensed by the State of Washington.

Licensed midwives are covered by all Washington-based insurance companies. Many out of state policies also provide coverage for midwifery services. However, your actual coverage may depend on the terms of the plan you subscribe to. It's always best to contact your insurance provider and check if you are covered.

Related Links:

• Books About Midwifery
  Select Bibliogprahy: Books and Resources About the Profession of Midwifery.

• Laws Governing Midwifery

• WA State Dept. of Health: Health Professions Quality Assurance's Midwifery Committee
  Official state DOH web site concerning midwifery oversight.

• The American College of Nurse Midwives (ACNM)

• Washington chapter of the American College of Nurse Midwives

• About MAWS
  The goals and philosophy of the Midwives' Association of Washington State.