Midwives gain new prescribing powers and ultrasound authority under updated regulation

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted

The Nurses and Midwives Regulation has been amended to expand the scope of practice for midwives in British Columbia. Midwives are now explicitly authorized to apply ultrasound for diagnostic or imaging purposes and to issue related authorizations, replacing a prior version of that section. Several new drug categories have been added to the midwife prescribing appendix: dopamine receptor agonists for lactation suppression, hormones for treating hypothyroidism, progesterone receptor modulators for first trimester medical abortion and early pregnancy loss management, and prostaglandins for the same reproductive health purposes. Two previously existing provisions (section 60(g) and section 67) have been removed, so midwives and their employers should review their current practice protocols against the updated text to ensure compliance. Health organizations employing or credentialing midwives should update scope-of-practice documentation and any standing orders that reference the repealed provisions.

Who this affects
registered midwives · midwifery practice employers and clinics · health authority credentialing teams · regulatory compliance officers in health organizations