How to become a certified midwife in Washington, WA

To become a certified midwife in Washington, WA, you must first complete a midwifery education program that is accredited by the Midwifery Education Accreditation Council (MEAC). These programs typically take two to four years to complete and include both classroom and clinical training. During your education, you will learn about prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, and newborn care.

After completing your education, you must pass the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) exam to become a Certified Professional Midwife (CPM). This exam tests your knowledge and skills in midwifery and is recognized by the state of Washington as a requirement for licensure.

Once you have passed the NARM exam, you can apply for a midwifery license with the Washington State Department of Health. The application process includes submitting your education and exam transcripts, proof of liability insurance, and a criminal background check. You must also provide documentation of your clinical experience, which must include at least 40 births attended as the primary midwife.

After your application is approved, you will receive your midwifery license and can begin practicing as a certified midwife in Washington, WA. It is important to note that midwives in Washington are required to work under the supervision of a licensed physician and must follow specific guidelines and protocols for providing care to their clients.