Looking for Midwife - Northcentral to northeast Arkansas

[jmgnini]

My husband and I found out we are 7 wks pregnant a wk ago. This will be our first child and it was a bit of a surprise. Unfortunately we live in a very rural area. The local hospital is not supportive of a natural birth and it makes me very uncomfortable. I would love to do a homebirth and possibly a water birth. Does anyone know of any midwives within my area? Most of the ones I find online are in western Arkansas, around Fayeteville. Also, does anyone know if this is something covered by Arkansas medicaid? Thank you so much for all of your answers in advance. :) 

[liberal_chick]

Can you tell me specifically where you are (or send me a private message?)?  I'm in Mountain Home and there are several midwives in this area that will travel a bit, but the further east you are the less likely that will be.  Mtn. Home is pretty much dead center.

[liberal_chick]

If you are way east, like near Jonesboro, you might check Memphis.

[jmgnini]

I am in between Viola and Salem Arkansas. About 30-40 min east of Mountain Home. Thank you so much for your prompt response! Do you know if any of them are covered by medicaid?

[liberal_chick]

I have no idea about Medicaid.  Belinda Tucker actually lives in MH and comes very recommended, although she couldn't see me because I was a VBAC.  She's probably worth a call.

My midwife was unlicensed (she was previously licensed) and drove to see me from Mtn. View.  She doesn't accept insurance, but she will negotiate her fee in trades.

If I was you, I'd call Belinda and check with her.  If she doesn't take Medicaid, I'd ask her for recommendations.  One thing I found while searching for a provider is that if one can't see you, they'll make a recommendation for you gladly.