Denise Colter Smith, PhD, CNM

Care Philosophy

My philosophy of care is best reflected in the American College of Nurse-Midwives Hallmarks of Midwifery: "The art and science of midwifery are characterized by the following hallmarks: -Recognition of menarche, pregnancy, birth, and menopause as normal physiologic and developmental processes -Advocacy of non-intervention in normal processes in the absence of complications - Incorporation of scientific evidence into clinical practice - Promotion of woman- and family-centered care - Empowerment of women as partners in health care - Facilitation of healthy family and interpersonal relationships - Promotion of continuity of care - Health promotion, disease prevention, and health education - Promotion of a public health care perspective - Care to vulnerable populations - Advocacy for informed choice, shared decision making, and the right to self-determination - Integration of cultural humility - Incorporation of evidence-based complementary and alternative therapies in education and practice - Skillful communication, guidance, and counseling - Therapeutic value of human presence - Collaboration with other members of the interprofessional health care team."