Converting Midwife qualifications UK to US
Nov 6th 2016, 1:16 pm
#16
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Re: Converting Midwife qualifications UK to US
Thanks Jerseygirl!
Nov 6th 2016, 1:18 pm
#17
Joined: Dec 2001
Location: Dixie, ex UK
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Re: Converting Midwife qualifications UK to US
Discussions about qualifications are moot (in other words a waste of our time, as well as yours) without a visa that allows you to work. 
Nov 6th 2016, 4:21 pm
#18
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Re: Converting Midwife qualifications UK to US
Until in the US with a valid work/immigrant visa and have a US SSN(which you cannot apply for until in the US with your visa) California will not accept your application. You may thing visa not important at this time but unfortunately it is when trying to register with a state BON. Presently California is the only state requiring a US SSN but some other states will not issue a license without you submitting SSN
Nov 6th 2016, 5:40 pm
#19
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Re: Converting Midwife qualifications UK to US
Midwives practice very differently in the US. A Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) must have a license to practice as an RN first. Most UK midwives I have worked with in the US have trained both in adult nursing and midwifery, and now work as Labor and Delivery nurses. CNM's are considered primary care providers and provide Gyne services, well woman and other minor family practice type issues in addition to midwifery care. CNM's can also bill insurance companies for care provided. As usual, every state will have their prescriptive requirements for licensure as an RN and for the additional CNM qualification. Silver Dragon is correct, a masters degree is also a requirement to practice as a CNM.
There is also a certification known as a CPM, Certified Professional Midwife. These midwives are considered "lay" providers despite the Certification. CPM practice is illegal in many states- GA, NC and others. Generally CPMs have a reputation for poor outcomes, because of a real or perceived lack of structured education. A CPM would not obtain privileges to practice as a midwife in a hospital setting.
There is also a certification known as a CPM, Certified Professional Midwife. These midwives are considered "lay" providers despite the Certification. CPM practice is illegal in many states- GA, NC and others. Generally CPMs have a reputation for poor outcomes, because of a real or perceived lack of structured education. A CPM would not obtain privileges to practice as a midwife in a hospital setting.
Last edited by DebzinUS; Nov 6th 2016 at 5:55 pm.
Nov 6th 2016, 8:38 pm
#20
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Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 160
Re: Converting Midwife qualifications UK to US
Hi, from my understanding you will have to first become registered as a nurse as there is no route for midwives (I may be wrong on this). For this you will need to pass the NCLEX exam as well as be BON registered for your chosen state (I believe California being very difficult). The Allnurses.com website has tonnes of information on this. Good Luck
