MIDWIVES for Service Members Act of 2024 Maternal and Infant Delivery Wellness and Integration with Vital Expertise Support for Service Members Act of 2024
Impact
If enacted, HB9335 could significantly impact maternity care for service members and their families by introducing more personalized and potentially less invasive birth experiences through midwifery. The bill highlights an important shift towards increased diversity in healthcare options, particularly in the realm of maternal and prenatal care. The Secretary of Defense is tasked with evaluating the effectiveness of the program, focusing on factors such as maternal outcomes, patient satisfaction, and the overall quality of care.
Summary
House Bill 9335, also known as the 'MIDWIVES for Service Members Act of 2024', aims to establish a pilot program that allows midwives to provide services to beneficiaries under the TRICARE program, which serves active-duty military members, retirees, and their families. The proposed program is set to last five years, beginning not later than a year after the bill's enactment. The intent behind this bill is to enhance maternity care options available to military families, specifically by integrating certified midwifery services into the existing health care framework provided by TRICARE.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding the bill may include concerns regarding the integration of midwife services within a predominantly medical model of care that exists under TRICARE. Advocates for midwifery argue that these services can lead to better maternal outcomes and higher satisfaction rates; however, detractors may raise issues related to oversight, professionalism, and the adequacy of midwifery training in specific medical environments. Long-term implementation of the program depends on the Secretary's evaluation of its success, which could lead to debates over subsequent health policy changes following the pilot's conclusion.
MIDWIVES for Service Members Act of 2025 Maternal and Infant Delivery Wellness and Integration with Vital Expertise Support for Service Members Act of 2025