PURPOSE:
The Midwifery Workforce Study was designed to identify policy changes needed to expand the midwifery workforce capacity and organize the information into tools to use for advocacy for midwifery.

DISCUSSION:
This two-year project synthesized data from multiple data sources and reviewed statutes and regulations from the federal government and 51 jurisdictions. The results were disseminated as data briefs, slide decks, reports, data sets, and infographics to allow state midwifery groups to use the materials in policy advocacy. We provided training through webinars and conference presentations. We produced a full policy toolkit to guide use of the resources. We also produced a data dictionary to guide researchers in the appropriate use of midwifery data and the regulatory environments within which midwives work. We also published scholarly articles to support our methods and to disseminate our research findings.

EVIDENCE WHERE RELEVANT:
State midwifery leaders report using the materials for state policy advocacy, midwifery education, to provide background information for grant proposals, and to inform research projects. The materials area being used by government agencies and non-government organizations to guide priorities. The results have been shared with other nursing organizations, researchers, and legislators. Materials are also shared on social media. Having the materials available to share during meetings has benefited the midwifery community. The scholarly publications are already being cited and the work has already contributed to state regulatory changes for midwives.

KEY MESSAGE:
Equipping US midwives with the skills and tools to advocate for regulatory change was an effective strategy to strengthen the profession of midwifery. Other