Pittsburgh midwife center supports SB 1137

From the May 2^nd Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

I was pleased to read the April 8 editorial in support of SB 1137, which was passed in the state House in March and is now in the Senate. SB 1137 will increase health coverage for thousands of people, increase reimbursements and extend MCare abatements for certified nurse-midwives, birth centers, physicians, nursing homes and others providing care across the state.

Because the deadline of March 31 for providers to pay their MCare assessments passed without any new legislation to authorize abatements for this year, The Midwife Center, along with other providers, had to pay its MCare assessments. Having to pay MCare assessments, along with regular malpractice premiums, is an extreme financial challenge for our independent, nonprofit birth center.

The Midwife Center exists to provide exceptional woman-centered pregnancy, birth and well-woman care in southwestern Pennsylvania's only licensed and independent birth center. SB 1137 will help The Midwife Center continue this important care to women and families in our region.

Increased reimbursements and MCare abatements would be a win for all providers across the state. Increased access to quality care is what we should all be working for. We urge the state Senate to pass SB 1137 so that The Midwife Center and other providers across the state can continue to provide quality care.

CHRISTINE HAAS
Executive Director
The Midwife Center for Birth & Women's Health
Pittsburgh