This bill amends the Medical Practice Act of 1985 to update definitions and licensing provisions for midwifery and nurse-midwifery in Pennsylvania. It introduces a new "certified midwife" license and redefines "medical training facility" to include training for nurse-midwife certificates. The bill clarifies that both nurse-midwives and certified midwives can use the title "midwife" and sets forth the conditions for their practice, including requirements for collaborative agreements with physicians and maintaining clinical staff privileges. Additionally, it establishes specific conditions for prescribing medications, including controlled substances, and mandates continuing education in pharmacology for both types of midwives.

The legislation also emphasizes the responsibilities of certified midwives in collaboration with physicians, particularly in identifying health deviations and managing complications. It requires certified midwives in health systems or hospitals to consult with physicians without establishing a physician-patient relationship, while maintaining responsibility for their services. Furthermore, certified midwives not affiliated with a health system must provide prospective patients with detailed information about their practice and emergency plans. The bill ensures that certified midwives are subject to the same provisions as certified nurse midwives under the Medical Care Availability and Reduction of Error (Mcare) Act, and it will take effect 60 days after passage.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 456 (Mar 21, 2025): P.L.457, No.112, P.L.317, No.69
Printer's No. 0456: P.L.457, No.112, P.L.317, No.69