The nurse-midwifery program at the University of Washington is currently slated to be cut. I am shocked that in this day and age universities would be cutting, instead of expanding, nurse-midwifery programs. With our entire health system increasingly depending on mid-level providers, and with the excellent outcomes of nurse-midwives in caring for low-risk women, it seems like a bizarre decision. According the the ACNM website, this is one of only two midwifery education programs in Washington state.
If you would like to support the program you can sign a petition urging the University and the state government to reconsider their decision (you don't need to be a local).
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/dannywestneat/2017242298_danny15.html
ReplyDeleteNot shocked at all. Our state is in the hole for over 3.5 billion dollars with a requirement to close the gap (balanced budget requirement), however in 2010 we passed laws that any tax increase requires a 2/3rds majority. Our budget is fucked with no way to increase revenue. And more and more the legislature has been slashing the budget of higher education to find money. Sounds like UW is forced to focus on programs that bring in money via research just to stay alive. There is no money. It's blood from a stone time here in WA. They've already made bloodier and bloodier cuts, there's nothing left.
Remember WA has no state income tax, so our state revenue is especially susceptible to a recession, as people freak out and stop buying things.
Just saying, the problem is a systemic one, and a lot more complicated than UW not having its priorities straight or something. There simply are no good decisions to make right now.
I am a UW Midwifery Student I thank you for your support. I would like to clarify and issue with this proposal to cut our program. It is not because of the budget per se, as the Midwifery program is funded entirely from student funds. We are one of the only programs operating in the black. This is politcal decision that must be reversed! Please stand with us and sign the petition! Research dollars do not trump the health and welfare of women and children.
ReplyDelete