HARRISBURG – The Senate approved legislation sponsored by Sen. Rosemary Brown (R-40) aimed at strengthening maternal health care in Pennsylvania by expanding access to high-quality maternity services across the commonwealth.
Senate Bill 507, also known as the Midwifery Modernization Act, updates the Medical Practice Act of 1985 by modernizing licensure requirements for certified midwives, improving collaboration between midwives and physicians and updating prescription authority – particularly for the treatment of substance use disorders.
The legislation was developed during five years of collaboration with health care professionals, licensing boards and maternal health advocates, these reforms aim to improve maternal health outcomes, expand provider availability and increase care options for women.
“A licensed midwife plays a vital role in the continuum of maternal health care,” Brown said. “This bill helps ensure women across Pennsylvania – especially in rural and underserved areas – can access safe, comprehensive and compassionate care throughout pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum recovery.”
Midwives provide care for women during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, as well as newborn care during the first 28 days of life. Many also offer routine reproductive health services, including prenatal care, clinical exams, screenings and patient education.
“Expanding midwifery access is about supporting mothers, babies and families,” Brown said. “When we empower more qualified professionals to provide care, we improve outcomes and strengthen our entire health care system.”
Senate Bill 507 is supported by more than 30 stakeholder organizations, including the Hospital Association of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Medical Society, the Pennsylvania Licensing System and the Association of Physician Associates in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
The bill received strong bipartisan support and now heads to the House of Representatives for consideration.
CONTACT: Mackenzie Mueller