Us Congress House Bill HR1539

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/8/24
• Refer: 10/8/24

Caption

Recognizing the roles and the contributions of United States certified nurse-midwives and certified midwives in providing high-quality, evidence-based, and cost-effective health care services to women and childbearing families.

Impact

The adoption of this resolution serves to enhance the visibility and recognition of the midwifery profession within the larger healthcare system. By promoting midwifery-led care, the resolution aims to encourage broader utilization of such services, which have been linked to improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes. This could potentially influence state and local policies by fostering an environment that supports increased funding and resources for midwives, especially in rural and underserved areas where access to comprehensive maternal healthcare is critical.

Summary

House Resolution 1539 recognizes the significant contributions of certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and certified midwives (CMs) in the delivery of high-quality, evidence-based healthcare services targeted at women and childbearing families. The resolution highlights the extensive range of services provided by these professionals, which include not just childbirth assistance, but also pre and postnatal care, as well as gynecological services throughout a woman’s life. The resolution is presented to acknowledge the vital role CNMs and CMs play in improving maternal health outcomes across various populations, especially in underserved communities.

Contention

While HR1539 is a resolution and thus does not have direct legislative implications like a typical bill, it may spark discussions around the expansion of midwifery services and the necessary regulatory frameworks that support their practice. Some potential points of contention could arise regarding the scope of practice for midwives, especially in comparison to obstetricians. There may also be debates surrounding the adequacy of training and certification of midwives, which could affect the delivery of services and quality of care in various settings.