Jordanian midwives, particularly those working in the public sector, are the major health care providers for mothers and their young children. Many women, however, do not receive early prenatal care, and some receive no prenatal care at all. Because of persistent high rates of maternal and early childhood morbidity and mortality, the Minister of Health has identified advanced preparation in primary health care nursing as a priority for some midwives, who will then be expected to function as leaders in the movement toward universal primary health care.