Can a CNM apply for WHNP certification?

klone, MSN, RN · Jun 27, 2015

Depending on the school, you will likely have more clinical requirements. A WHNP program has a lot more time spend in clinic doing gyn care and primary care.

Ria28 · Jun 28, 2015

Just wondering if I'd have to reapply for post master's or just add on the extra hours to my curriculum...The latter would be awesome!

klone, MSN, RN · Jun 29, 2015

Just wondering if I'd have to reapply for post master's or just add on the extra hours to my curriculum...The latter would be awesome!

Depends totally on the program - some do allow a dual degree (I know Frontier does).

Simplyroses · Jul 13, 2015

The CNM scope of practice includes women, menarche through menopause, and neonates to one month of age. CNM's do GYN and women's health.

The NCC credentials you to be a WHNP. https://www.nccwebsite.org/Certification/Exam-detail.aspx?eid=17 but your educational program must be specific for WHNP, which usually includes more gyn clinical time.

The problem I see with being dual certified is that it is a waste of time and money. You need to take extra credits in school, sit for a separate exam, and maintain the continuing education requirements to do both roles.

If you know you want to do Women's Health ONLY and never do deliveries, then it makes sense to do a WHNP program. However, your scope of practice, and therefore employment opportunities and loan repayment options, are more limited. If you are a CNM, you can limit your practice to just Women's Health if you choose and can find employment in an office or clinic that doesn't want you to share OB call.