NY A00446

Amends the definition of "hospital" in Public Health Law to include midwifery birth centers engaged principally in providing services under the supervision of a midwife.

Adds new definition of "midwifery birth center" as a hospital engaged principally in providing prenatal and obstetric care services provided primarily by midwives.

Directs the Commissioner of Health to establish regulations for midwifery birth centers covering establishment, construction, and operation, developed in consultation with midwives, midwifery birth centers, and general hospitals providing obstetric services.

References state and national professional association standards for midwifery birth centers when developing regulations.

Takes effect immediately upon enactment.