ACNM's Commentary on the Midwifery Workforce in the US

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Workforce
• Advanced Practice Providers
• Maternal Health

Background:

• Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) and Certified Midwives (CMs) are advanced practice providers with a broad scope of practice.
• Midwives attend 10.9% of US births, contrasting with higher proportions in other high-income nations.
• Despite workforce growth, retirements and attrition impede expansion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the role and scope of practice of CNMs and CMs.
• To identify barriers to expanding the midwifery workforce.
• To advocate for increased access to midwifery care to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity.

Main Methods:

• The abstract synthesizes information on the ACNM, CNM/CM scope of practice, and workforce statistics.
• It reviews research demonstrating positive outcomes associated with midwifery care.
• It identifies key barriers to workforce expansion and suggests potential strategies.

Main Results:

• CNMs/CMs provide comprehensive care, including reproductive health, prenatal, birth, and postpartum services.
• Research supports the effectiveness and positive outcomes of midwife-led care.
• Workforce expansion is hindered by state-level practice restrictions, limited clinical preceptors, and lack of diversity.

Conclusions:

• Expanding the CNM/CM workforce is essential for improving maternal health and access to care.
• Addressing barriers is critical for workforce growth and ensuring equitable sexual and reproductive healthcare access.
• Increased access to midwifery care can help mitigate rising maternal mortality and morbidity rates.