Expanding Midwifery Education to Improve Maternity Care Access
This legislation aims to address maternity care shortages by expanding educational opportunities for midwives and nurse-midwives. It authorizes the Secretary to award grants to institutions of higher education and schools of nursing for student support, program establishment or expansion, and preceptor training. Special consideration is given to institutions prioritizing students who plan to practice in health professional shortage areas and those focusing on increasing racial and ethnic minority representation.
Key points
Authorizes a total of $35 million in appropriations for fiscal years 2024 through 2028 ($15 million for midwifery schools, $20 million for nursing schools).
Mandates that 50% of the allocated funds be used for direct support of students in accredited programs.
Allocates 25% of funds for establishing or expanding programs and 25% for supporting preceptors.
Prioritizes grants for institutions focusing on health professional shortage areas and increasing minority representation in midwifery education.
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_1851
Sponsor: Sen. Lujan, Ben Ray [D-NM]
Process start date: 2023-06-07