Midwife - Rules in Progress

Rules in Progress

The rules writing process is open to the public. The public is welcome to take part in helping us write rules. Rules are also known as regulations, Washington Administrative Code, or WAC. The rule-making process includes public notices and workshops, and usually a public hearing before a rule becomes final.

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Current rules in progress

Health Equity Continuing Education Requirement

Effective January 1, 2024, a new interpretive statement, WSR 24-02-024, mandates health equity continuing education for licensed midwives. This requirement ensures that midwives are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide culturally competent care, aiming to reduce health disparities across communities.

Extended Prescriptive Authority for Midwives

The Department of Health has filed a rule, WSR 24-05-052, to extend the prescriptive authority of midwives (PDF). This new rule allows midwives to prescribe, obtain, and administer a broader range of medications and medical devices for prenatal, postpartum, and family planning care. This change is designed to improve the quality-of-care midwives can provide to their patients.

Public Hearing Date: April 4, 2024, at 9 a.m. The hearing will be available both in person and online. Register for the webinar

More agency rule resources