Problems in the Current System The US presently ties for last place in infant mortality rates among all industrialized countries in the world, yet spends more of its gross national product on health care than any ther country in the world. The US stands alone among 75 industrialized and developing countries in its failure to ensure basic health and social services needed during pregnancy, childbirth and infancy. Maternity care costs have increased at an alarming rate, partly due to increased use of expensive technologies and surgical procedures.

Midwifery Care: Part of the Solution Midwives provide care that is safe. Midwives provide quality prenatal care.

This information is provided by the Midwives' Association of Washington State, the professional organization of certified Nurse-Midwives and Licensed Midwives in Washington State. 6/93.