AZ HB2247

Department of Health Services must consider adopting rules by July 1, 2013 to reduce regulatory burden on licensed midwives and streamline the regulation process.

Any party seeking to expand midwifery scope of practice must submit a report to DHS director demonstrating consumer need, evidence-based competency, and analysis of potential public harm.

Director must appoint a midwifery scope of practice advisory committee including two licensed midwives, two public members, three physicians (obstetrics and family medicine specialists), and one nurse midwife or nurse practitioner.

Advisory committee must hold a public meeting within 60 days of report publication to receive comments, submit recommendations within 30 days, and director must conduct another public meeting on proposed rules within 30 days of publication.

Department of Health Services is exempt from standard rulemaking requirements under Title 41, Chapter 6 Arizona Revised Statutes until July 1, 2013, but must provide public notice and opportunity for comment.