Pennsylvania Senate Bill SB507

Pennsylvania 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/21/25
• Refer: 3/21/25

Caption

Further providing for definitions, for midwifery and for nurse-midwife license; and providing for certified midwife license.

Impact

If enacted, SB 507 will significantly impact the regulation of midwifery within Pennsylvania. The bill sets forth criteria that midwives must fulfill to obtain a certified midwife license, emphasizing both academic qualifications and clinical practice standards. The legislation will enhance the scope of practice for midwives, enabling them to prescribe medications and manage patient care more comprehensively. However, they must work under collaborative agreements with physicians, thus maintaining a connection with traditional healthcare systems.

Summary

Senate Bill 507 aims to amend the Medical Practice Act of 1985 in Pennsylvania, particularly focusing on the provisions surrounding midwifery and nursing practices. The bill introduces a new certification for certified midwives, allowing them to practice independently under specific conditions. It also outlines the educational requirements necessary for obtaining the certification and lays down the conditions under which these midwives can prescribe medications, including controlled substances.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 507 appears mixed. Proponents advocate for the bill as a means to empower midwives and improve maternal healthcare access through enhanced midwifery services. They argue that reducing restrictions and enhancing the qualifications for certified midwives can lead to better care for pregnant individuals. On the other hand, some critics express concerns that the expanded powers for midwives may not ensure adequate medical oversight and could raise safety issues without stringent regulations to accompany such changes.

Contention

Notable points of contention relate to the degree of independence certified midwives will have, particularly concerning their ability to prescribe medications without direct oversight from physicians. The balance between increasing access to midwifery services and ensuring patient safety through adequate medical supervision is a primary focus of the debates surrounding the bill. The requirement for a collaborative agreement with a physician is seen as a safeguard, yet it also raises questions about the autonomy of certified midwives in practice.