Birthing Center - Freestanding
Freestanding Birthing Centers
Freestanding birthing centers or "birthing centers" are licensed as Health Care Facilities in Ohio. The rules for birthing centers are set forth in Chapter 3701-83 of the Ohio Administrative Code in rules 3701-83-33 through 3701-83-42. Birthing centers are limited to serving "low risk" expectant mothers, but may provide services during pregnancy, delivery, and the immediate postpartum period. A physician or a certified nurse midwife in collaboration may direct birthing center patient services with a physician.
You may obtain applications for licensure, Change of Ownership (CHOW), forms, and information through the links below:
Birthing centers owned and operated by a religious entity and that provide services exclusively to women who are members of that religious denomination, sect are exempted from licensure. For more information, please visit the Freestanding Birthing Centers - Exempt page.
Mailing Address:
Ohio Department of Health
Office of Health Assurance and Licensing, Birthing Centers
246 North High Street, 2nd Floor
Columbus, OH 43215
Telephone: (614) 995-7466
Fax: (614) 564-2475
E-mail: community@odh.ohio.gov