Sinema-backed bill increases number of trained midwives in Arizona
WASHINGTON – Arizona senior Senator Kyrsten Sinema cosponsored the Midwives for Maximizing Optimal Maternity Services (MOMS) Act – bipartisan legislation to improve health outcomes for families and reduce maternal and infant mortality by increasing the number of trained midwives in Arizona.
“Increasing the number of trained midwives will provide comfort, care, and support to new and expectant mothers – further strengthening maternal and infant health in Arizona,” said Sinema.
The Midwives for MOMS Act establishes grants for higher education institutions to create or expand midwife training programs like the University of Arizona’s Nurse-Midwifery specialty program. This program prepares certified nurse-midwives to independently provide care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period.
The Midwives for MOMS Act increases the number of certified nurse-midwives trained in Arizona, with incentives for students and medically underserved, tribal, and rural communities to stay in Arizona and practice midwifery.