Are you interested in becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) in Wisconsin?
That’s wonderful!
Becoming a CNM in Wisconsin can be immensely rewarding.
CNMs provide invaluable service to women and their families during a very important time in their lives.
They offer comprehensive care that helps improve pregnancy outcomes and make labor and delivery easier for mothers by helping them prepare for what lies ahead.
CNMs also work alongside other medical professionals, such as obstetricians and gynecologists, to help care for women throughout their pregnancies.
But becoming one is not that easy.
It requires dedication, knowledge, and commitment to providing quality health care.
You will need to undergo further education, national exams, licensure applications, etc. to qualify to become a CNM.
But we’re here to help you out!
We’ll guide you through the process of how to become a nurse midwife (CNM) in Wisconsin, and then we’ll answer some FAQs afterward.
If you’re ready to pursue this rewarding career path, then join us as we discuss the 5 steps you need to take.
Let’s go!
How to Become a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) in Wisconsin in 5 Steps
Before anything else, it is important to note that you cannot become a Certified Nurse Midwife without first becoming a Registered Nurse.
CNMs are considered Advanced Practice Nurses, so you first have to cover the basics of nursing before you can proceed.
If you are not yet an RN, you can read this guide on how to become an RN in Wisconsin.
After that, you can proceed to the steps necessary to become a CNM in Wisconsin:
- Step #1: Complete an Accredited Nurse Midwife Program
- Step #2: Take the National Certification Examination
- Step #3: Finalize License Application with the Wisconsin Board of Nursing
- Step #4: Practice Your Specialization
- Step #5: Keep Your Certification and License Current
Step #1: Complete an Accredited Nurse Midwife Program
The first step to becoming a CNM in Wisconsin is to complete an accredited nurse midwife program.
CNMs typically complete a three-year CNM program, which includes coursework, clinical experience, and practicums that focus on providing care for women during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
When choosing a program, make sure it’s one that’s been accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education (ACME).
Currently, there is only one accredited midwifery school in Wisconsin – the Marquette University College of Nursing in Milwaukee.
You can also look for schools in nearby states or those that offer online or hybrid programs.
For more details, you may visit the ACME website.
Step #2: Take the National Certification Examination
Once candidates have completed their CNM program, they must take the National Certification Examination in Midwifery (NCEM).
This exam is administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB) and is designed to test CNMs’ knowledge of maternal and newborn care.
It is composed of 175 multiple-choice items that cover topics on:
- Antepartum
- Intrapartum
- Postpartum
- Gynecology
- Women’s health and primary care
- Newborns
They have four hours to complete the exam.
Candidates must apply online or submit a paper application to take the exam.
They also need to submit an examination fee ($500) and proof of RN licensure before they will be allowed to sit for the exam.
Successful exam takers are given their Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) credentials via email.
For a more detailed breakdown of what to expect in the NCE, you can check out the AMCB’s Certification Exam Candidate Handbook.
Step #3: Finalize License Application with the Wisconsin Board of Nursing
After passing the NCEM, your next task is to apply for licensure with the Wisconsin Board of Nursing.
CNMs must submit a license application and pay the application fee ($75) to be considered for CNM licensure in Wisconsin.
They must also provide transcripts from their CNM program and verification of education completed by their CNM program.
After gathering your requirements, you may mail them to this address:
Wisconsin Board of Nursing, Department of Safety and Professional Services
P.O. Box 8935
Madison, WI 53708-8935
Step #4: Practice Your Specialization
CNMs typically work with obstetricians and gynecologists in hospitals, birthing centers, or private practices.
They may also find employment at clinics and long-term care facilities.
Here are a few recommendations:
- Arboretum Obstetrics and Gynecology (Madison, WI)
- First Choice Women’s Health (Janesville, WI)
- UW Hospital and Clinics- Gynecology (Madison, WI)
- Women’s Care of Wisconsin (Appleton, WI)
Note: We can’t guarantee that these facilities will currently be hiring. Be sure to run your own research to achieve better results.
Step #5: Keep Your Certification and License Current
While enjoying your career, don’t forget to keep your license and national certification active.
Keeping Your License Active
To maintain their Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) license in Wisconsin, licensees must renew every 2 years.
The current renewal fee is $86 and can be completed online or with a paper renewal form obtained by calling the state board.
The renewal process requires the completion of 8 contact hours of continuing education which must be documented.
Additionally, licensees must provide evidence of legal status, liability insurance, and national certification or continuous competence assessment cycle for the period that is being renewed.
Renewing your CNM license also renews your RN license automatically in Wisconsin.
It is important to keep track of renewal dates to avoid any penalties or suspension from practice due to non-compliance with licensure requirements.
It may be beneficial to set up calendar reminders or notes on important dates so that you don’t miss any deadlines.
Keeping Your CNM Certification Current
CNMs in Wisconsin must follow the American Midwifery Certification Board’s (AMCB) Certification Maintenance Program to renew their certification.
They have two options to satisfy the program requirements:
Option 1 requires completing 3 AMCB Certificate Maintenance Modules and 20 contact hours of approved continuing education units during each 5-year certification cycle, and paying annual fees.
Alternatively, CNMs can choose Option 2 and retake the AMCB Certification Examination for a fee of $500, thereby exempting them from having to pay annual fees.
Regardless of the option chosen, CNMs in Wisconsin must keep detailed records of their continuing education courses and demonstrate successful completion of all required regulation components.
Failure to do so may result in suspension or revocation of the CNM certification by the state’s regulatory board.
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) in Wisconsin
How long does it take to become a nurse midwife in Wisconsin?
Generally, CNMs complete an accredited CNM program and take the NCEM exam within three years.
After that, CNMs need to apply for licensure with the Wisconsin Board of Nursing, which usually takes several weeks or months to complete.
The amount of time it takes to become a CNM in Wisconsin can vary depending on individual circumstances.
What are the educational requirements for CNM licensure in Wisconsin?
CNMs in Wisconsin typically need to have a bachelor’s degree in nursing and have completed an accredited CNM program.
They must also take the National Certification Examination in Midwifery (NCEM) administered by the American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB).
How much does the CNM license application fee cost in Wisconsin?
The CNM license application fee in Wisconsin is $75.
How much does a CNM in Wisconsin earn?
CNMs in Wisconsin earn a mean annual wage of $118, 430, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Conclusion
And that concludes our guide on how to become a CNM in Wisconsin!
Although becoming one requires a lot of hard work and dedication, CNMs have rewarding careers, both professionally and personally.
Don’t be daunted by the process.
Just take things slowly. You’ll become a CNM before you know it!
We hope this article helps you in your journey toward becoming a full-fledged CNM in the Badger State. If you need more information on how to become a nurse in your state, feel free to browse through our blog for an article that suits your needs!