Phoenix, Arizona – A licensed midwife, Sarah Kankiewicz, faces potential license revocation following multiple complaints and tragic deaths during a home birth she oversaw in December. The Arizona Department of Health Services initiated the process to revoke Kankiewicz’s license after meeting with her earlier in March, raising concerns about her practices and the safety of her patients.
Criticism has surrounded the lack of transparency from the Arizona Department of Health Services regarding the meeting with Kankiewicz and the status of her license. Despite inquiries, a spokesperson declined to provide detailed information and instead mentioned ongoing discussions with Kankiewicz regarding potential settlement terms.
Numerous complaints have emerged about Kankiewicz, with reports of at least one baby’s death and another baby requiring resuscitation after a stillbirth during a home birth. These incidents have prompted investigations, with one mother, Heather Flowers, detailing a traumatic birthing experience under Kankiewicz’s care, leading to severe physical effects that persist to this day.
Further citations and penalties were issued against Kankiewicz for failing to meet regulatory requirements, including not conducting enough prenatal visits and proceeding with a home birth despite the mother’s hypertension diagnosis. The culmination of complaints escalated when a tragic incident occurred in December 2023, resulting in the deaths of Jordan and Mack Terry during a home birth overseen by Kankiewicz.
The investigation into the Terry case revealed critical failures on Kankiewicz’s part, such as neglecting vital checks and approving a home birth in defiance of state regulations. The devastating outcome of Jordan Terry’s uterine rupture raised questions about the oversight and accountability of midwives in ensuring safe birthing practices.
Former Arizona Department of Health Services director, Will Humble, highlighted the complexities surrounding extended scope of practice for midwives, emphasizing the importance of stringent regulations and robust oversight to minimize risks during home births. Transparency and accountability within the health department were stressed as crucial elements in guiding parents towards informed decisions about birthing options.
Despite the notice of intent to revoke her license, Kankiewicz has continued to practice, sparking concerns about the effectiveness of regulatory measures and potential gaps in monitoring midwifery practices. The uncertain fate of Kankiewicz’s license underscores the need for comprehensive evaluation and regulation to safeguard the well-being of expectant mothers and their newborns.