Do you want to open a birth center?
Essential Steps and Resources
Congratulations! You have come to the right place. As the nation’s most comprehensive resource on birth centers, AABC works on multiple levels to provide you with a solid foundation on which to build your birth center.
The actions listed below are important steps to opening a birth center. Prepare for your success!
- Attend a How to Start a Birth Center Workshop.
- Become an AABC Developing Birth Center Member.
- Network.
- Know your community.
- Know the national Standards for Birth Centers.
- Know the birth center regulations in your state.
- Develop your business plan.
- Plan for CABC accreditation from the start.
- Continue educating yourself.
Top Resources for Opening a Birth Center
Standards for Birth Centers
Nationally recognized standards address philosophy of care; planning, governance and administration; human resources; facility, equipment and supplies; the health record; research; and quality evaluation and improvement. Learn more>>
How to Start a Birth Center Course
Offered in three formats: online, in-person, and customized. The course provides a comprehensive curriculum taught by industry leaders for everything you need to consider when starting an evidence-based practice in the wellness model of care. Learn more>>
Developing Birth Center Membership
An AABC membership specifically designed for those interested in opening a birth center to provide the foundation and support you need. Learn more>>
Curbside Consulting
Weekly virtual group consulting sessions with the How to Start a Birth Center faculty provide real-time guidance to support your practice. Learn more>>
Member Forums
An active member community with distinct discussion forums for birth centers, alongside midwifery units, and all members Learn more>>
Toolkits for Contracting
Designed to assist with contracting for your birth center including how to determine your break-even. Plus, attend monthly office hour sessions to problem-solve issues you may have. Learn more>>
Sample Policies & Procedures
Don’t reinvent the wheel. Use these samples to get you started. Learn more>>
CQI Manual
Developed and tested by birth center personnel and quality management experts. Includes forms and instructions for implementing a CQI program in birth centers. Learn more>>