The Pan American Health Organization marked the International Day of the Midwife by urging countries across the Americas to invest more in midwifery as a foundation for stronger and more resilient health systems. Midwives are highlighted as essential providers of care, capable of delivering up to 90% of key health services related to sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, and adolescent health when properly trained and supported.
Data from the National Health Workforce Accounts platform shows that while the region has over 78,000 midwives, their distribution remains uneven, with some areas experiencing critically low workforce density. This imbalance underscores the need for better workforce planning, training, and retention, particularly in rural and underserved communities where access to care is limited.
Midwives play a central role in primary health care systems by offering culturally sensitive, community-based care and ensuring continuity of services for women and families. Their integration into health systems has been linked to improved health outcomes, greater equity, and stronger trust in healthcare services. Although most countries in the region recognize midwifery as a distinct profession, gaps remain in regulation, licensing, and quality assurance, which can limit their full impact.
Efforts are ongoing to strengthen the profession through improved education, regulatory frameworks, and integration into health teams. The region currently hosts around 160 midwifery training programs, many of which incorporate modern tools and interdisciplinary learning approaches. With a high proportion of graduates meeting core competency standards, there is growing capacity to deliver comprehensive care across the life cycle.
PAHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting countries in advancing midwifery through investments in education, employment, leadership, and regulation. Strengthening these areas is seen as essential to ensuring equitable access to quality care and improving health outcomes for women and newborns across the region.
