| SUMMARY OF: | A Performance Audit of the Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development, State Board of Certified Direct-Entry Midwives |
Why DLA Performed This Audit
The purpose of the audit was to determine if there is a need for the board’s continued existence and whether its termination date should be extended. The board is set to sunset June 30, 2017, and will have one year from the date to conclude its administrative operations.
Report Conclusions
The board is serving the public’s interest by effectively licensing and regulating certified direct-entry midwives and apprentice midwives. The board monitors licensees and works to ensure only qualified individuals practice. Furthermore, the board adopts regulations to improve the practice of midwifery. In accordance with AS 08.03.010(c)(8), the board is scheduled to terminate on June 30, 2017. We recommend that the legislature extend the board’s termination date to June 30, 2021.
Findings and Recommendations
1. Division of Corporations, Business and Professional Licensing (DCBPL) management, in conjunction with the board, should increase licensing fees to eliminate the board’s operating deficit.
2. The DCBPL director should take steps to ensure license records are accurately recorded.
3. The legislature should consider alternate forms of regulating the midwifery profession.