Findings From the Analysis of the American College of Nurse-Midwives' Membership Surveys: 2006–2008

Abstract

The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) Core Data Survey is an annual membership survey that collects demographic and selected workforce data about certified nurse-midwives (CNMs), certified midwives (CMs), and students enrolled in midwifery education programs accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Midwifery Education, who are members of the organization. This article presents findings from the analysis of membership data for the years 2006 to 2008. An e-mail invitation to participate in the online survey was sent to all ACNM members who provided ACNM with an e-mail address. A paper copy of the survey was available upon request. The survey instrument for the years 2006 to 2008 focused on five categories: demographics, certification, education, employment, and licensure. ACNM member respondents continue to remain predominantly white and female. The average age of CNMs/CMs for 2008 is 51 years, and the majority holds a master's degree as their highest degree. Very few advances have been made in the effort to increase the diversity of ACNM membership. The number of CNMs earning doctoral degrees (including the doctor of nursing practice degree) is increasing. A majority of CNMs/CMs continue to identify a broad domain of clinical midwifery practice as their primary responsibility in their primary employment, and hospitals and physician practices remain the largest employers of midwives. Salaries for midwifery-related work are rising, but it is unclear if midwives are earning more because salaries are higher or because the higher salaries reflect market wage adjustments that occur over time.