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2010 Legislative Agenda
Increase choice and access to midwifery care for New York women
- Support legislative bill S5007/A7118 the “Midwifery Modernization
Act” that would eliminate the requirement for a written
practice agreement between a midwife and a physician in order
to legally practice midwifery
- This legislation would remove a longtime barrier to practice
for many midwives and allow greater consumer access to midwifery
services, especially in rural areas where the need is felt the
greatest
Address the medical malpractice crisis and inequality professional
liability insurance rates for midwives
- Continue to dialogue with the Department of Insurance to remind
legislators and the Governor that midwives are providers of obstetric
services especially if any changes are considered for OB/GYN insurance
premiums
- Provide expert testimony as needed at DOI hearings
Fight to keep midwifery services viable across New York State
- Address the challenges that midwifery practices faces in:
Albany area hospitals
St. Vincent Hospital in New York City
Bellevue Birth Center in New York City
- Issue news releases and letters to the media and key decision-makers
as appropriate
- Ensure that hiring practices come into compliance with New
York State law at hospitals that have refused to consider the
application of Certified Midwives (CMs)
Work closely with interested clients and consumer to establish
a strong grass roots base
- Invite consumers to lobby with midwives and student midwives
at our annual Lobby Day
- Liaise with groups who have already begun to campaign with
legislators on our behalf and help to disseminate information
Encourage greater involvement of student midwives in New York State
- Increase participation of student representatives to one per
program in the state
- Stress the active participation of students at board meetings
and in conference calls, as appropriate
- Actively ask for feedback from students to determine their
needs and to capture their creative spirit and energy
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