SAMPLE LETTER FOR YOUR STATE LEGISLATOR OR GOVERNOR

Currently, I receive care from _______________, a certified nurse-midwife (CNM)/certified midwife (CM) (choose one) at ______________ in (CITY), (STATE). SHE/HE receives reimbursement from Medicaid, Medicare, __________, ___________, _____________, and__________. The CNM currently collaborates with Dr. ________________ who is available for consultation, collaboration, and transfer of care if needed.

As a woman, I value the philosophy and access to care that I receive from ________________. However, I fear that the current crisis involving professional liability insurance for health care providers will decrease, if not eliminate, my access to women's health care and my choice to obtain services from a nurse-midwife. As a resident of (CITY), (STATE), and your constituent, I am requesting that you ensure that my access to health care will not be compromised by enacting effective tort reform. My needs as a women are at stake.

______________, CNM/CM (choose one) is a highly trained licensed professional who is experienced in providing clinical care for low-risk women, health education, and follow-up for mothers and their families. My care from a midwife is a safe, cost-effective and patient-responsive health care alternative that produces good outcomes and high levels of patient satisfaction. The costs associated with midwifery care are lower as a result of fewer technological interventions, fewer cesarean sections and other surgical procedures, and shorter hospital stays. I do not want to lose my access to cost-effective health care.

I know that you are committed to ensuring that my needs as a woman are accessible to high quality, cost-effective care. It is my belief that tort reform is essential to secure my needs today and in the future. Your immediate attention to this issue is appreciated.