This is a directory research checklist, not medical advice. We have not assessed the clinical suitability of any listed provider or birth setting.
01. Know who will provide your care.
- What are your current credentials, license numbers and licensing authorities?
- Who attends appointments and the birth? Can I meet backup clinicians?
- How do I contact the team after hours?
South Carolina DPH provides licensed-midwife information. For nurse-midwives, start with the South Carolina Board of Nursing. Check the individual clinician, not just a practice name.
02. Be specific about the setting.
- Where do prenatal appointments, the birth and postpartum visits take place?
- Do you attend births at my address? Are there travel fees?
- What criteria do you use to determine whether your services are appropriate for me?
- If I am considering water birth or have had a previous cesarean, what are your current policies?
For a birth center, check the facility’s licensing information as well as the clinician’s credentials.
03. Talk through changes of plan.
- What happens if I need a different level of care before or during labor?
- Which hospital would receive a transfer, and how are records and communication handled?
- What emergency equipment and training does the team maintain?
- Who continues postpartum care after a transfer?
04. Get the full cost in writing.
- What does the fee include, and what is billed separately?
- Are labs, imaging, newborn services, supplies and travel included?
- Do you bill my exact insurance plan, or provide a superbill? What must I confirm with my insurer?
- What are the deposit, payment schedule, refund and transfer policies?
05. Check the practical fit.
- Are you accepting clients for my due date?
- What appointment schedule and postpartum support do you offer?
- Can you accommodate my communication, language and accessibility needs?
- Is there a consultation or tour before I commit?
Keep each practice’s answers with the date you received them. Policies, staffing, pricing and availability can change.
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