Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) Ruth Cummings of Sacramento is awaiting a final decision from the California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN), following accusations of gross negligence related to a 2010 stillbirth. The incident stemmed from a phone consultation in which Cummings allegedly failed to identify signs of labor in a client who later delivered a stillborn baby in an emergency room.
Background of the BRN Case Against Ruth Cummings
The case surfaced in 2013, and in 2014, an administrative law judge placed Cummings on three years of probation. Now, the case is being reconsidered with potential statewide consequences for out-of-hospital midwifery.
Ruth Cummings’ Professional Background
Ruth Cummings has decades of experience in women’s health. She earned her BS/MS in Nursing from the UCSF School of Nursing and previously worked as an ICU nurse. In 2000, she founded The Birth Center in Santa Rosa, which has been described as the only freestanding, midwife-operated birthing center in Sacramento.
Public Support and Expert Testimony
Dr. Susan Fischer Wilhelm, PhD, testified in Cummings’ favor, having had a successful birth experience under her care. Alongside Dr. Wilhelm’s testimony, 86 declarations of support were submitted, primarily from past clients.
Potential Outcomes of the BRN Ruling
| Ruling Outcome | Impact on Midwives |
|---|---|
| In Favor of Cummings | Sets a precedent for greater protection of CNMs; reassures midwives about legal safety. |
| In Favor of BRN | Could lead to the closure of The Birth Center; may increase regulatory scrutiny. |
Similar Legal Precedent: The Kolodji Case
In 2015, CNM Yelena M. Kolodji faced similar scrutiny over supervision practices. In that case, the judge ruled that the BRN acted “in an arbitrary and capricious manner,” favoring Kolodji. The decision could influence the outcome of Cummings’ case.
Implications for California’s Out-of-Hospital Midwives
This case has sparked concern across California’s midwifery community. A ruling against Cummings may lead to increased regulation and fewer options for those seeking out-of-hospital births.
Understanding the BRN’s Role in Midwifery Oversight
The California Board of Registered Nursing (BRN) licenses and regulates CNMs, investigates complaints, and enforces disciplinary actions. Midwives must comply with BRN policies to maintain licensure and continue practicing safely and legally.
Learn More About Midwife Licensing in California
Interested in becoming a CNM? Visit our California Midwife Licensing Guide to explore the steps, programs, and regulations you’ll need to follow.
Conclusion: A Decision That Could Reshape Midwifery Practice
As of now, the BRN’s final decision in Ruth Cummings’ case has not been made public. However, the outcome will likely have a lasting impact on how midwifery is practiced and regulated across the state.
Disclaimer
As of this publication, no official ruling has been made public in the case of Ruth Cummings. This article will be updated as new information becomes available.