AR HB1215

Removes requirement for certified nurse midwives to maintain an agreement with a consulting physician if providing intrapartum care and instead requires full practice authority under new § 17-87-314.

Grants certified nurse midwives full practice authority to evaluate patients, diagnose medical conditions, order diagnostic tests, initiate and manage treatment plans, and prescribe and administer drugs in Schedules III-V without collaborative practice agreement or supervision.

Eliminates collaborative practice agreement requirements for certified nurse midwives prescribing medications in Schedules III-V, but requires such agreements for Schedule II medications.

Requires certified nurse midwives providing deliveries outside accredited facilities to identify a licensed physician or facility with arrangements for referral and consultation in case of medical complications.

Prohibits certified nurse midwives from performing abortions or providing abortion counseling or referrals.