WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 418

Certified nurse midwives; not required to have written collaborative agreement with physician to practice as.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Dan Eubanks

Mississippi bill eliminates physician collaboration requirement for certified nurse midwives, expanding independent practice authority for maternal healthcare providers.

Referred To Public Health and Human Services
#publichealthandhumanservices
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 418

Legislative bill overview

HB 418 would remove the requirement for certified nurse midwives (CNMs) in Mississippi to have a written collaborative agreement with a physician in order to practice. Currently, Mississippi law mandates this physician collaboration as a condition of CNM licensure and practice authority.

Why is this important

This change affects access to maternal healthcare in Mississippi, a state with high maternal mortality rates and healthcare shortages in rural areas. CNMs provide prenatal care, deliver babies, and manage postpartum care; eliminating the physician agreement requirement could expand their independent practice capacity and potentially increase healthcare availability, though it also raises questions about oversight and safety protocols.

Potential points of contention

  • Patient safety and oversight: Opponents may argue that physician collaboration ensures quality control and provides oversight for complex pregnancies requiring specialist intervention
  • Scope of practice expansion: This represents a significant expansion of CNM autonomy; concerns exist about whether CNMs are adequately trained for all situations they might encounter independently
  • Physician opposition: State medical associations may oppose reduced collaborative requirements, viewing it as diminishing physician authority in maternal care settings
  • Rural vs. urban impact: The bill's practical effects differ dramatically—rural areas may gain access while urban areas with abundant physicians may see little change

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.