§ 2351 — Definitions [Effective January 1, 2027 or on effective date of rules]

As used in this chapter:
(1) “Birth center” means a facility the primary purposes of which are to provide midwifery care, low-risk deliveries, and newborn care immediately after delivery, for a stay of generally less than 24 hours. The term does not include a facility that is a hospital, is part of a hospital, or is owned by a hospital; a facility that is an ambulatory surgical center; or the residence of the individual giving birth. A birth center may be located on the grounds of a hospital.
(2) “Certified nurse midwife” means an advanced practice registered nurse licensed in accordance with 26 V.S.A. chapter 28, subchapter 2 who has specialized training in childbirth, newborn care, and reproductive health care services.
(3) “Change of ownership” means a change in the majority or controlling interest in an established birth center to another person.
(4) “Corrective action plan” means a written strategy for correcting an issue of partial compliance, deficiency, or violation of this chapter or rules adopted pursuant to this chapter.
(5) “Licensed maternity care provider” means a licensed provider whose professional scope of practice, as established under Vermont law, includes preconception, prenatal, labor, birth, and postpartum care and early care of a newborn and who may be the primary attendant during the perinatal period.
(6) “Licensed midwife” means a professional licensed in accordance with 26 V.S.A. chapter 85.
(7) “Licensed provider” means an individual licensed or certified in Vermont to provide specific health care-related services within a scope of practice defined by licensing statutes and rules, and may include advanced practice registered nurses, including certified nurse midwives; licensed midwives; physician assistants; naturopathic physicians with a childbirth endorsement in accordance with 26 V.S.A. §§ 4122(b) and 4125(b); and physicians.

Legislative History

(Added 2025, No. 19, § 1.)