Nurse Midwives, Certified

It is AAFP policy that the term "certified nurse midwife" should be reserved for those who undergo specific training programs following attainment of an R.N. license. Following licensure as a registered nurse, the nurse desiring to function as a certified nurse midwife should be certified rather than licensed as a certified nurse midwife.

The AAFP position is that certified nurse midwives should only function in an integrated practice arrangement under the direction and responsible supervision of a practicing, licensed physician qualified in maternity care.

It is AAFP policy that training programs preparing certified nurse midwives, like training programs for all health care providers, should be constantly monitored to assure the quality of training provided and that the number of graduates reflects demonstrated needs.

The Academy supports the concept of patient and third-party payment for services of certified nurse midwives where services are provided in an integrated practice arrangement. (1990) (2020 COD)