Q: What is the legal status of midwifery in Washington State? A: Washington State Law Recognizes two separate entry paths for professional midwifery: Licensed Midwifery and Certified Nurse-Midwifery. Licensed Midwives (LMs) must complete three years at a state accredited midwifery school and pass a state licensing examination. They are licensed under the state's Midwifery Act, RCW 18.50 Nurse-midwives (CNMs) are educated in the disciplines of nursing and midwifery. Their certification from the American College of Nurse-Midwives entitles them to practice in most states, including Washington, where they are licensed as Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioners under RCW 18.88.

Q: How are Midwives Educated? A: All student midwives complete rigorous theoretical instruction as well as extensive supervised clinical experiences in all aspects of midwifery care. Licensed midwives must attend a three year midwifery education program accredited by Washington State. Standards for education for these programs are consistent with those established by the International Confederation of Midwives and the International Confederation of Gynecology and Obstetrics. Washington midwives are required to attend 100 births under supervision in the course of their clinical training. Certified Nurse-Midwives, after completing nursing licensure, are educated at one of 24 programs in the United States, accredited by the American College of Nurse-Midwives. Programs vary in length, with some granting the basic certificate in nurse-midwifery (9-12 months) and others granting a master's degree in addition to the basic certificate (18-24 months)

Q: Where in Washington State is midwifery training available? A: There are currently two programs in Washington accredited by the state to provide education for Licensed Midwives: the Seattle Midwifery School, and independent three year program, and the John Bastyr College, where naturopathic students may complete additional course and clinical work to meet state requirements. In September, 1993, the University of Washington School of Nursing began the state's first program to train Certified Nurse-Midwives. More information regarding nurse-midwifery education programs can be obtained from the American College of Nurse-Midwives, 1522 K Street NW, Washingtn, D.C. 2005, (202) 289-0171.

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.