As a solution to the severe dearth of quality and accessible maternal healthcare in Iowa, particularly rural Iowa, Governor Kim Reynolds has created legislation that would allow professional midwives to get licensed and practice midwifery formally without needing to hold a nursing degree. Midwives will be able to obtain this license starting July 1^st, 2024.

As much as one-third of the counties in Iowa do not have a hospital or birth center offering obstetric care and are considered ‘maternity care deserts.' Allowing midwifery to close this gap and offer birth services will allow millions of women access to quality pre and post-natal care, especially in rural Iowa.

Iowa Joins 37 Other US States in Introducing Licensure for Midwives

The license will include protections for practicing professional midwives and let them provide maternal care legally and officially. However, just as before, midwives could still get into trouble for practicing without a license. Currently, Iowa only recognizes Certified Nursing Midwives (CNM) and does not recognize professional midwives without a nursing license. Practicing without licensure and certification may result in penalties ranging from jail time to a fine.

Meanwhile, 37 other states, including New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Maine, Hawaii, and Delaware, already have licensing processes for midwives. The American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) certifies midwives. Requirements for holding a Certified Midwife (CM) license can include attending a midwifery program and having to clear an examination. The CM license is reviewed every 5 years.

Midwives can lose their license or face sanctions for a number of reasons, including allegations of improper dispensation of medication, violation of professional or ethical boundaries, failure to maintain or update their license, and more.

Consequences of License-Related Investigation

If you are facing an investigation that could impact your midwife license and ability to practice midwifery, do not make the mistake of trying to fight the allegations alone. Any missteps could lead to permanent damage to your career and reputation. The Professional License Defense team at the Lento Law Firm can help you defend against such an allegation and ensure you do not lose your license or face sanction owing to a lack of knowledge of the legal system.

With years of experience defending nurses, midwives, doctors, and other medical professionals, the Lento Law Firm can not only help you put together a successful defense strategy, they can also negotiate on your behalf and minimize damage to your license and career.

Premier Professional License Defense

Being subjected to an investigation relating to your professional license can be scary and daunting. Do not put your career on the line and try to deal with an investigation single-handedly. The Lento Law Firm has helped professionals nationwide defend their licenses and can help you too. Reach out at 888-535-3686 for a consultation or contact us online. With some of the best attorneys on your side, you will be sure to obtain the best possible outcome and protect your livelihood.