On Nov. 28, 2024, the BCCNM board approved several changes to registered midwife policies relating to alternate practice arrangements and active practice requirements. These changes take effect Dec. 30, 2024.
Review the revised policies:
Context
BCCNM launched a project in May 2024 to review and revise the RM standards of practice (specifically standard 6.4), new registrant requirements, and active practice requirements & alternate practice arrangements. Staff conducted literature reviews and consulted within the health-care system, including with the Indigenous Midwives Council.
Recommendations included revisions to reduce regulatory barriers to practice while balancing BCCNM's public protection mandate, promoting alignment with right-touch regulatory philosophy, and ensuring requirements are evidence-informed, fair, and consistent across groups of registrants.
Summary of changes
Extend the active practice period to three years to align the requirements with those for NP practice hours. This allows midwives greater flexibility to meet requirements despite taking time away from practice.
Remove redundant requirements already outlined in the Policy on New Registrant Requirements. This improves clarity and differentiation between new registrant and active practice requirements.
Rescind the Policy on the Requirements for Midwives with Active Practice Shortfalls and incorporate pertinent information into the revised active practice policy.
Remove exemptions to standard 6.4 for alternate practice arrangements to align with the proposed revisions to the standards of practice for midwives.
Policies were also revised to align with BCCNM's role and regulatory philosophy and to refine and simplify language for clarity and consistency. BCCNM will be in contact with midwives impacted by these policy changes.
Questions?
Contact
qualitymidwives@bccnm.ca.