My name is Sarah Allen-Short, and I am a Virginia resident and former doula who has benefitted from midwifery care. 

I am writing to strongly support Regulations Governing the Practice of Licensed Certified Midwives in Virginia. 

I am in favor of regulations allowing certified midwives to practice in VA for the following reasons: 

Meeting the growing demand for maternity care: The demand for maternity care services is increasing due to factors such as population growth, aging populations, and improved access to healthcare. Midwives play a crucial role in providing comprehensive and personalized care to pregnant women, facilitating normal childbirth, and promoting maternal and newborn health. Increasing the number of midwives can help meet the rising demand for maternity care services and ensure access to quality care for all women.

Improving maternal and newborn outcomes: Midwifery care has been associated with positive maternal and newborn outcomes. Studies have shown that midwife-led care is associated with lower rates of interventions, such as cesarean sections, episiotomies, and inductions, while maintaining excellent safety and quality outcomes. By expanding the midwifery workforce, more women can benefit from midwifery-led care, leading to improved health outcomes for both mothers and babies.

Addressing disparities in maternal health: Disparities in maternal health outcomes, particularly among marginalized and underserved populations, are a significant concern. Midwives are well positioned to address these disparities by providing culturally sensitive and equitable care. Increasing the number of midwives, particularly in areas with limited access to maternity care, can help ensure that all women, regardless of their background or socioeconomic status, receive comprehensive and respectful care throughout the childbirth continuum.

Promoting holistic and woman-centered care: Midwifery care is characterized by a holistic and woman-centered approach that emphasizes personalized care, shared decision-making, and continuity of care. Midwives focus on the physical, emotional, and social well-being of women, providing comprehensive care that extends beyond pregnancy and childbirth. The presence of more midwives in the workforce allows for greater availability of this model of care, empowering women to actively participate in their healthcare decisions and promoting a positive childbirth experience.

Reducing healthcare costs: Midwifery care has been associated with cost savings in healthcare systems. By providing care that is based on evidence, promoting normal physiological processes, and reducing unnecessary interventions, midwives can help lower healthcare costs associated with childbirth. Increased investment in midwifery services can contribute to cost-effective care models while maintaining high-quality outcomes.

Filling healthcare provider gaps in underserved areas: Many regions, particularly rural and remote areas, experience shortages of healthcare providers, including obstetricians and other maternity care specialists. Midwives can help fill these provider gaps by providing primary maternity care in these underserved areas. By expanding the midwifery workforce, access to maternity care services can be improved in these areas, reducing disparities and ensuring that women have access to essential care closer to their communities.

Thank you,

Sarah Allen-Short