Opinion No.

Ms. Joycelyn Elders, M.D., Director Arkansas Department of Health 4815 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72205

Dear Dr. Elders:

This is in response to your request for an opinion concerning the practice and licensure of lay midwifery. You have asked the following specific questions in this regard:(1) The Health Department requires that the physician providing emergency backup to a licensed lay midwife be licensed by the Arkansas State Medical Board. Is this a correct interpretation of the Regulations Governing the Practice of Lay Midwives?(2) Does Section 4 of Act 481 of 1987 [A.C.A.…