She has an important task in health counseling and education, not only for the woman, but also within the family and the community. The work should involve antenatal education and preparation for parenthood and extends to certain areas of gynecology, family planning and child care. She may practice in hospitals, clinics, health units, domiciliary conditions of in any other service. Types of Midwives in the United States Washington State recognizes two separate paths for professional midwives. For further details, see Midwives in Washington State .
Legal status varies from state to state.
In some states, midwives' services are reimbursable through Medicaid and private insurance carrriers. CNMs practice most often in hospitals and birth centers. The MAWS Directory of Midwives. Books and Resources About the Profession of Midwifery. The goals and philosophy of the Midwives' Association of Washington State.