Collaboration and the practice of nurse-midwifery

In the United States there are growing examples of physician and certified nurse-midwife collaborations capitalizing on the strengths of both disciplines working in the best interest of the patient and her family. The philosophy and practice of certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), however, are not embraced universally by all physicians, and childbirth continues to be treated and reimbursed as a disease process. As Americans seek to establish a partnership with those providing their care, they will naturally embrace advanced practice nurses and reach a mutually beneficial health outcome.