Any birth center OWNERS out there?

[studentmom2007]

Hi everyone! I am still in pre-nursing, although I have submitted apps to hopefully start this fall, if all goes well! My ultimate "money, time, and everything else is no object dream" is to get my RN, get some experience hopefully in L&D and later get a CNM and open my own birth center. I am passionate about natural and low intervention births.

So, are there any posters here who own their own birth center? I just wouldn't know where to begin with startup, costs, obtaining equipment, insurance, staff and who knows what else! I am just curious what your process was and if someone could give me any insight. My dad started his own business in the construction industry over 35 years ago and has done well, so I was able to see first hand some of the work he did in running his business, so I kind of have an idea of how that could work, but since this is a totally different area I'm kind of clueless!

[cookderosa]

I just want to say good luck and ecourage you to follow your dream! We only had 1 birth center here (CNM owned) but it closed down. I taught a few baby food and childbirth ed classes there. Perhaps you could find a birth center and do some volunteer work? It might be a good network connection for the future!

[midwyf]

I suggest you go to the AABC (American Assoc of Birthing Centers) web site. They offer workshops regarding How to Start a Birthing Center several times per year. Some schools send their student to these workshops as part of their midwifery curriculum. Good luck. You have great aspirations! :)