Dear Friends-

As you may know, effective July 1, 2010, all practicing midwives in Idaho are required to be licensed. However, what you may NOT know is that as a Licensed Midwife in the state of Idaho, we are unable to accept Medicaid reimbursement at this time.  The Idaho Midwifery Council is actively seeking to remedy that situation. Here’s what you can do to help.

Contact:       The Department of Health and Welfare
                     Attention Medical Care Unit
                     PO Box 83720
                     Boise, ID   83720

Let them know that you want Idaho Licensed Midwives to be added to the list of qualified Medicaid Providers. It is essential that you, as a consumer, let them know why this is important to you.

Here are a few things to consider when writing your letters:

Ø      Midwives are highly trained, licensed professionals in the State of Idaho.

Ø      Midwives provide safe, quality care for healthy women desiring to birth at home or in a birth center.

Ø      Midwives offer pronounced financial benefits.  Cost of a home or birth center delivery averages ⅓ to ¼ the cost of a normal birth in the hospital.

Ø      Midwives offer their clients emotional support as well as educational support throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.

 It is also important to state what your circumstances are, for instance:  “ I had my 1^st birth with a midwife and now I am eligible for Medicaid but my midwife can’t help me because she is not a Medicaid Provider…”

Or—“I live in a small rural community where healthcare options are limited, and I want to be sure that my midwife can assist me with my pregnancy and birth as a Medicaid provider...”

 With your help, we can better serve women and families in our community.

Thanks!