DHEC licenses midwives in accordance with Regulation 61-24, Standards for Licensing Midwives.
Requirements for Licensure
Individuals must pass both the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) national written examination and an oral examination administered by DHEC in addition to other prescribed requirements on page 8 of Regulation 61-24.
License Renewal
License renewal is every two years with continuing education required.
Midwife Apprentice License
Apprentice licenses are issued to students sponsored by a South Carolina licensed midwife, certified nurse midwife, or physician.
Midwifery Services
Licensed midwives provide collaborative prenatal care, primary assistance in the birth process, initial care of the newborn, postpartum care of the mother, and follow-up on both. Deliveries are generally conducted in the home, but may be conducted in a hospital or birthing center. Should there be deviations from a normal, low-risk pregnancy or delivery, the licensed midwife consults a qualified physician and makes an appropriate referral. The licensed midwife is trained and equipped to carry out life-saving measures.
Regulations and Code of Laws
- Regulation 61-24, Standards for Licensing Midwives
- Regulation 61-102, Standards for Licensing Birthing Centers for Deliveries by Midwives
- Care of the Newly Born, Section 44-37-10, et seq.