Midwives can be certified as either a certified midwife (CM) or a certified nurse midwife (CNM). CNM requires a nursing degree and is necessary for practicing in most states. Both require completion of an approved midwifery program and passing a national certification exam. Continuing education is necessary to maintain certification.
Midwives are caregivers and medical professionals who take a holistic approach to pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal care of women and babies. There are two different certifications for midwives. The first is the certified midwife (CM). The CM credential does not require a nursing degree, but it is not legal to practice midwifery under that designation in most states. For those who want the flexibility to practice anywhere in the United States, the Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) certificate is the best choice. The CNM certification requires training in nursing.
Whichever route is selected, applicants must first complete an academic program in midwifery that is approved by the Division of Accreditation (DOA) of the American College of Nurse Midwives (ACNM). Those without a nursing background must have a bachelor’s degree with a focus on science courses such as biology, chemistry, and anatomy before entering a midwifery program. If the prerequisites are not satisfied with the applicant’s bachelor’s degree program, you may need to take some courses before attending a midwifery school. CM programs generally last about three years and cover the same material found in a certified midwifery program.
For those seeking certification as a certified nursing midwife, a nursing degree must also be completed. Every midwife must earn at least a bachelor’s degree, and many complete a bachelor’s degree in nursing to become a registered nurse (RN) and then complete midwifery requirements in a master’s program. Currently, other options are a post-baccalaureate certificate and some continue into a doctoral program. By 2010, all certified nurse midwives entering the field will be required to complete a graduate degree program.
After an approved academic program is completed, candidates can take the national certification exam. Upon passing the exam, candidates earn the Certified Midwife or Certified Nurse Midwife credential. These certifications are given by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) and are valid for eight years.
During the eight-year period, midwives must complete continuing education credits. This is called a Certification Maintenance Program (CMP). If continuing education requirements are met, a new license will be granted at the end of the eight-year period. Otherwise, no new licenses will be issued until the midwife has taken and re-passed the national certification exam. As with any medical profession, it is critical that certified nurse midwives stay current on new techniques and procedures to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care available.
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