Midwives have become in greater demand over the last decade. The American College of Nurse-Midwives reports a steady increase in midwife-attended births since 2005. As of 2014, they assisted with 8.3 percent of all deliveries in the United States, as opposed to about 7.5 percent in 2005. Moreover, employment possibilities for nurse anesthetists, practitioners and midwives are also projected to increase. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the combined job availability for these specialists will rise about 31 percent between 2014 and 2024—much faster than other professions during the same period.
With these statistics, educational programs are gearing their programs to prepare future nurses to serve. Additionally, Time Magazine also reported on the trend of midwife births rising, with some clinics now forced to turn women away who seek their services. In response to anticipated needs, more students may learn to become nurse-midwives to be ready for increased upcoming demand. These matriculants will not only find new specializations to match their interests but also greater support as they advance through their curricula. Furthermore, nurse practitioners will be needed in related areas to help provide total care solutions.
More Curricula Adding Nurse-Midwifery as a Specialty
To ready their students, many nursing master degree programs are featuring specializations in nurse-midwifery. One example is the University of Cincinnati, which offers online courses of study in the field. A certified nurse-midwife, or a CNM, is responsible for health education and counseling, gynecological care and directing the patient to contraception options. They’re also vital in helping with prenatal care and assistance with labor and delivery, as well as new mother and baby care. They also focus on holistic care that includes preventative measures, as well as total mind and body health.
Others Offer Expanded Nurse Practitioner Specializations
Other programs may not offer specific specializations for nurse-midwives, but include other areas of expertise that may benefit learners seeking to serve as a nurse practitioner. For example, Maryville University offers Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) concentrations. These may be useful if a future nurse wishes to work in a combined obstetrics and pediatric private practice, in a family medicine obstetrics focus or as part of an expanded care network.
Furthermore, many schools emphasize mentorship for added growth as a student progresses through both classroom learning and hands-on practical training. Learning with a mentor provides key opportunities to expand on knowledge already obtained in studies, and better prepares one for his or her career. This may be especially critical for nurses who become experts in areas such as nurse-midwifery, family practice or pediatrics.
Nurse Practitioner and Midwifery Specializations Continue to Grow
The expected need for more nurse practitioners and certified nurse-midwives will likely fuel both employment and educational trends. As more clinics and care networks strategize to build their menus of services for both the immediate and long-term needs, courses of study also step up their offerings to match anticipated demand. With top-quality curricula as well as additional focuses on holistic care, midwifery, pediatrics and family practice, there are no shortage of options for prospective nurses to study, graduate and then enter the field.
