Celebrating International Day of the Midwife with the Reintroduction of Federal Legislation

In recognition of the International Day of the Midwife, a global celebration of midwives' essential role in maternal and newborn health, we are proud to announce the reintroduction of several federal bills to improve maternal health and expand access to midwifery care. The American Association of Birth Centers, the American College of Nurse-Midwives, Birth Center Equity, the National Association of Certified Professional Midwives, and the Policy Institute for Midwifery and Community Birth have worked collectively to advance this critical legislation.

Midwifery care across all birth settings has consistently demonstrated improved health outcomes for birthing people and infants, including lower rates of cesarean births and other medical interventions. Research shows that midwifery-led care in birth centers significantly reduces the rates of premature birth and low birth weight infants, leading to fewer NICU admissions, improved health outcomes, and substantial healthcare cost savings. Additionally, breastfeeding rates and durations are notably higher under midwifery-led care in birth centers, contributing to long-term health benefits for infants. Multiple studies have confirmed the reliability of these outcomes and the cost savings realized by all insurance payers, including Medicaid.

“Together, these legislative efforts represent a critical step toward a more equitable, accessible, and effective maternity care system,” said Trinisha Williams, MPH, CM, LCCE, CLC, President of the American Association of Birth Centers.

The bills being reintroduced today and in the coming days include:

• The Midwives for MOMS Act is a bill to fund midwifery education and expand educational programs and preceptor sites.
• The BABIES Act is a bill to fund birth center startup expenses and a cost-based reimbursement demonstration in 6 states.
• The Midwives for Service Members Act is a bill that would establish a five-year pilot project to provide coverage for TRICARE beneficiaries for care provided by CMs and CPMs in birth centers and other settings.

These bills share the theme of improving access to midwifery care while reducing barriers to care.  This legislation will help to relieve the growing shortages of maternity care providers and Maternity Care Deserts. According to the March of Dimes, over 35% of US counties are considered maternity care deserts because patients must drive over 30 minutes to reach a care provider. 

You can help advance these bills by contacting your legislators and asking them to co-sponsor. Learn more>>