Mission Statement

www.BirthActionCoalition.org

The Birth Action Coalition believes the birth journey is an essential expression of human dignity that requires informed and empowered partnerships between women, families and health-care providers. Through projects that educate and advocate, The Birth Action Coalition will work to create supportive birth environments in our communities.

Friday, February 12, 2010

First CNM in Ventura County Responds to Midwife Ban at St. John's Pleasant Valley

MY-MY- MY!!
Thirty years after struggling against unfair, restricted trade practices against Certified Nurse Midwives (CNM), it starts all over again. SJPVH has taken away a perfectly legal birth choice for families.

All hospitals, nursing services and medical staff should be practicing based on evidence based facts. There is no evidence that nurse midwifery care is inferior to medical care, in fact there is evidence against this misinformation.
To use lack of a level 2 nursery as an excuse is ridiculous. If a hospital cannot manage care for their patients, perhaps they should not be providing that service. To single out a licensed professional is restrictive and against fair trade Act

30 years ago I fought this battle, pioneering nurse midwifery into Ventura Co. It was a struggle at times, humbling at times, but eventually very rewarding. I spent 10 years assisting births at both St John’s and Community Hospital. I certainly never thought that midwives would have to go through this again.

A CNM is a licensed legal professional, whose education qualifies her (or him) to provide excellent and safe care. We practice in conjunction with the medical team, identify problems, get consults, and assistance as needed

I sincerely hope that the hospital, MD's and risk management revisit and correct this issue.

Sincerely,
Patricia Halpin, CNM

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