APA WF # 25-08 Birthing Centers and Licensed Midwives

The proposed policy changes are being promulgated as Permanent Rules.

The proposed policy changes establish coverage and reimbursement methodologies for birthing centers and licensed midwives. They allow coverage of birthing center and licensed midwives’ services for normal, uncomplicated, low-risk births. Birthing centers must be accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Birth Centers (CABC). Licensed midwives must be Certified Midwives or Certified Professional Midwives and be licensed by the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) to provide midwifery services. Birthing centers will be reimbursed a facility charge determined by the Ambulatory Payment Classification (APC) fee schedule. Licensed midwives will be reimbursed 80% of the physician fee scheduled for services within their scope of practice as defined by state law.

Please view the draft regulatory text here and submit feedback via the comment box.

Pursuant to 75 O.S. §303(D), a rule impact statement will be posted here beginning December 30, 2025. Individuals may also request a copy using the comment box, and the statement will be provided on December 30, 2025.

Proposed Policy Timeline

Circulation Date: 12/15/2025

Medical Advisory Committee: 1/8/2026

Comment Due Date: 1/15/2026

Public Hearing: 1/15/2026

Board Meeting: 1/21/2026

After you submit your comment, you should be re-directed to a confirmation page. If you are not, please submit your comment through e-mail to federal.authorities@okhca.org.

Please note that all comments must be reviewed and approved prior to posting. Approved comments will be posted Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Any comments received after 4 p.m. will be posted on the following business day.