This bill amends existing laws to grant independent prescriptive authority to midwives in New Jersey. It modifies R.S.45:10-6 to allow midwives to prescribe drugs beyond the limited scope previously permitted, which was restricted to certain situations such as administering ergot after childbirth or household remedies. The bill removes the requirement for midwives to operate under standing orders and practice protocols developed in collaboration with a physician, thereby expanding their autonomy in prescribing medications. Additionally, the definition of "midwife" is updated to include both certified nurse midwives and certified midwives registered with the board.

The bill also retains the requirement for midwives to complete 30 contact hours in pharmacology, including training on prescription opioid drugs, to qualify for prescribing authority. Other amendments include the removal of the term "certified nurse midwife" in various sections, replacing it with the broader term "midwife." The State Board of Medical Examiners is tasked with creating necessary rules and regulations to implement these changes. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the role of midwives in healthcare by allowing them greater independence in prescribing medications.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45:10-17, 45:10-18, 45:10-19, 45:10-20, 45:10-21