This bill proposes several updates to the current statutes regarding midwifery in Arizona. It introduces new definitions, such as "licensed midwife," and modifies the existing definition of "director" by removing the phrase "of health services." The bill establishes a framework for licensed midwives to dispense and administer specific medications, including antibiotics, antiemetics, and antihemorrhagic medications, while also outlining the conditions under which these medications can be used. Additionally, it mandates that licensed midwives disclose their professional liability insurance status to patients and requires them to file an annual report detailing their practice statistics, including the number of deliveries and patient transfers.

Furthermore, the bill creates the Arizona midwifery advisory committee to assist in examining midwifery license applicants and to provide recommendations on the midwifery scope of practice. The committee will consist of licensed midwives, certified nurse midwives, physicians, and a consumer of midwifery care. It will meet quarterly and will be responsible for reviewing proposed changes to the midwifery scope of practice based on evidence-based research and public safety considerations. The bill also replaces the previous reporting requirements for licensed midwives with a more comprehensive annual report that includes various statistics related to their practice.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-751, 36-755, 36-761, 36-762, 36-763