Massachusetts S784 aims to enhance the sustainability of birth centers and the midwifery workforce.

Massachusetts S784 establishes the Midwifery Workforce Development Fund to support midwifery education and training. The fund will cover program costs, tuition, licensing fees, and stipends for students. It also mandates equal payment rates for services provided by midwives and physicians, and by birth centers and hospitals. The bill requires insurance policies to include these provisions. Additionally, it establishes a community birth data registry to improve birth outcomes and mandates licensing requirements for birth centers.

Massachusetts S784 aims to enhance the sustainability of birth centers and the midwifery workforce.

Massachusetts S784 establishes the Midwifery Workforce Development Fund to support midwifery education and training. The fund will cover program costs, tuition, licensing fees, and stipends for students. It also mandates equal payment rates for services provided by midwives and physicians, and by birth centers and hospitals. The bill requires insurance policies to include these provisions. Additionally, it establishes a community birth data registry to improve birth outcomes and mandates licensing requirements for birth centers.