ACNM Joins Letter Thanking Congress for Provision Expanding Medication-Assisted Treatment Authorization

On Tuesday, June 19, 2018, the American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) joined the Nursing Community Coalition as one of 46 signers of a letter thanking Congress for a provision that expands the authorization of Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) to administer Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Use Disorders.

The provision, Section 303, ‘Allowing for More Flexibility with Respect to Medication-Assisted Treatment of Opioid Use Disorders,’ is part of the SUPPORT for Families and Communities Act (H.R. 6). This Act amends the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 823 (g)(2)(G)) to permanently authorize Nurse Practitioners and provide a five-year authorization for Clinical Nurse Specialists, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists, and Certified Nurse-Midwives to provide this care.

The letter states, ‘APRNs are critical agents in treating these patients and are sometimes the sole providers of this care in medically underserved areas that struggle to recruit and retain providers and are hit hardest by this epidemic. The members of the Nursing Community Coalition are the cross section of education, practice, research, and regulation within the nursing profession.

Read the letter here.



The American College of Nurse-Midwives (ACNM) is the professional association that represents certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) and certified midwives (CMs) in the United States. With roots dating to 1929, ACNM sets the standard for excellence in midwifery education and practice in the United States and strengthens the capacity of midwives in developing countries. Our members are primary care providers for women throughout the lifespan, with a special emphasis on pregnancy, childbirth, and gynecologic and reproductive health. ACNM reviews research, administers and promotes continuing education programs, and works with organizations, state and federal agencies, and members of Congress to advance the well-being of women and infants through the practice of midwifery.