The bill amends various sections of the Ohio Revised Code to enhance the regulation of certified nurse-midwives, certified midwives, and licensed midwives, while also designating May 5th as the "Day of the Midwife." Key amendments include the introduction of new sections that outline the roles and responsibilities of midwives in healthcare settings, ensuring they are not discriminated against in hospital staff membership or professional privileges based on their licensure. The bill mandates that hospitals providing maternity services must consider applications from certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives without discrimination and requires the identification of a collaborating physician for these applicants. Additionally, it establishes new standards for ambulatory surgical facilities and freestanding birthing centers, ensuring that qualified professionals attend each birth and that infection control programs are in place.

Furthermore, the bill expands the definitions and structure of the nursing board in Ohio, increasing the number of board members and introducing new definitions for various types of midwives. It also clarifies the responsibilities of certified midwives, including maintaining standard care arrangements and prescribing medications. The bill introduces provisions for the licensing and practice of midwifery, requiring specific educational criteria and informed consent for treatments outside hospital settings. It establishes a framework for reporting adverse incidents associated with home births and mandates the creation of individualized transfer of care plans. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the regulatory framework for midwifery and nursing practices, ensuring patient safety and accountability within the healthcare system.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3701.351, 3702.30, 4723.01, 4723.02, 4723.03, 4723.06, 4723.07, 4723.08, 4723.271, 4723.28, 4723.282, 4723.33, 4723.34, 4723.341, 4723.35, 4723.41, 4723.43, 4723.431, 4723.432, 4723.481, 4723.483, 4723.487, 4723.488, 4723.4810, 4723.4811, 4723.50, 4723.91, 4723.99, 4731.22, 4731.27