Plain English Breakdown
The bill summary text indicates that the scope was expanded to include 'other states' instead of 'neighboring states,' but it does not specify which other states are included.
Study on Certified Nurse Midwives' Practice Independence
This bill requires Tennessee's commissioner of health to study how other states allow certified nurse midwives to practice independently and report findings by December 31, 2026.
What This Bill Does
- Requires the commissioner of health to use existing resources to study how other states let certified nurse midwives work on their own without a doctor's supervision.
- Includes an analysis of maternal health outcomes, provider shortages, hospital closures, and recent policy changes in these states.
- Requires the commissioner to compile findings and recommendations into a report by December 31, 2026.
- The report must be sent to the chief clerks of both houses of the Tennessee General Assembly and the legislative librarian.
Who It Names or Affects
- Tennessee's commissioner of health
- Certified nurse midwives in other states
Terms To Know
- certified nurse midwife
- A healthcare professional who is trained to provide care for women during pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period.
- independent practice
- The ability of a certified nurse midwife to work without direct supervision by a doctor.
Limits and Unknowns
- It is not clear how the study will be funded.
- The bill does not specify which states are included in the study, leaving that detail vague.