86.9 Legalization of Midwifery
Whereas,
- The approach to midwifery, a primary contact profession, is unique in the care of mother and child, having a distinct focus on the normal;
- Formal accreditation would provide the highest standard of midwifery; and,
- The usual jurisdiction within the Canadian Health Care system would give jurisdiction for the licensing of the profession of midwifery to the Provincial and Territorial governments;
RESOLVED,
- That The National Council of Women of Canada establish a policy in support of the profession of midwifery as a health care specialty;
- That The National Council of Women of Canada urge the Government of Canada to recognize the profession of midwifery as a health care specialty;
- That The National Council of Women of Canada urge the Government of Canada to encourage the Provincial and Territorial governments to enact licensing legislation for the profession of midwifery;
- That The National Council of Women of Canada encourage the Provincial Councils which have not yet taken a position on the legislation of midwifery to study the subject and present recommendations to their respective governments. These studies should include an investigation into the place of the midwife in government health care systems and the relevant education requirements.