What is a Certified Nurse Midwife?
CNMs are registered nurses with graduate education in midwifery. They have graduated from a nurse-midwifery education program accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME). This education includes a university degree as well as hands-on clinical training by practicing CNMs. They also have passed the national certification exam of the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB). CNMs provide general women’s health care throughout a woman’s lifespan. These services include general health check-ups and physical exams; pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care; well woman gynecologic care; and treatment of sexually transmitted infections. CNMs are able to prescribe a full range of substances, medications, and treatments, including pain control medications. CNMs work in many different settings, such as hospitals, health centers, private practices, birth centers, and homes. Most midwives in the United States are CNMs. Click here for more info.
Do you accept my insurance?
We are not participating in-network within any private insurance plans. No out of hospital midwives in the area are, because of the unfair reimbursement amounts for midwifery services. However, most insurance plans will cover all or some of the home birth fee. Since each policy is different, we will guide you step by step (see: insurance step by step in PDF section) about how to find out what your policy offers.
For birth services, We require full payment for services by 36 weeks, and provide you with a receipt with proper codes for you to submit to your insurance company after your baby is born. We also help you to navigate the grievance process if your claim is denied. Primary care services are expected at time of service, and a receipt is provided for you to submit to your insurance to request reimbursement. A sliding scale fee schedule is available for primary care visits. Labs are billed directly to your insurance company and should be covered under most policies.