Syracuse, N.Y. -- A bill that would let licensed nurse midwives practice independently has passed both houses of the state Legislature and now awaits Gov. David Paterson’s approval. The Senate unanimously passed the bill Wednesday. The Assembly passed it Monday. The bill would repeal a requirement that midwives have a written agreement with a doctor or hospital willing to step...
Syracuse, N.Y. -- A bill that would let licensed nurse midwives practice independently has passed both houses of the state Legislature and now awaits Gov. David Paterson’s approval.
The Senate unanimously passed the bill Wednesday. The Assembly passed it Monday.
The bill would repeal a requirement that midwives have a written agreement with a doctor or hospital willing to step in to provide emergency services if a patient develops problems the midwife cannot handle. Midwives say the requirement is a barrier to practicing independently and it is becoming difficult in rural communities to find doctors to sign agreements. Some doctors’ groups say the requirement helps ensure patient safety.