Midwifery education today.
Today, there are more than 7000 CNMs and CMs in the United States, who attend approximately 9% of American births annually in hospitals, birth centers, and homes. Midwives work in a variety of practice models, including group practices with physicians, HMOs, private practices, rural and urban community health centers, and large managed care organizations. CNMs and CMs also serve as administrators, policy makers, and consultants in international maternal and child health. Midwifery education has come a long way since 1931, when the first education program started. The dedication of CNMs to our clients and the midwifery model of care, as well as these midwifery educational innovations, will continue to support the profession's goals of offering humane, holistic, and safe health care to women and their families.