CNM/CMs Fill the Gap in Rural Maternal Care

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Healthcare Policy
• Maternal Health

Background:

• The U.S. is experiencing a significant maternity care crisis.
• Workforce shortages disproportionately affect rural maternity care access.
• The underutilization of the midwifery model of care is a critical issue.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the potential of certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives in addressing the rural maternity care crisis.
• To advocate for national action to integrate midwifery care into practice and funding.
• To explore solutions for scaling up the midwifery workforce to improve maternal health outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review on midwifery care models and workforce challenges.
• Analysis of factors impacting maternity care service delivery in rural settings.
• Discussion of individual, institutional, state, and federal strategies for workforce expansion.

Main Results:

• Certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives are well-positioned to manage low-risk pregnancies.
• Midwifery care can effectively address social determinants of health in rural populations.
• Existing literature strongly supports midwifery care, yet national implementation is lacking.

Conclusions:

• Expanding the certified nurse-midwife workforce is a crucial strategy to combat the rural maternity care crisis.
• Policy and funding changes are necessary to translate evidence-based recommendations into practice.
• Addressing workforce shortages through midwifery expansion can improve maternal health equity.