Grievance Mechanism

Grievance Mechanism addresses a second or subsequent complaint against a CPM (or CPM applicant). Any recommendations derived as a result of this process are binding and may include probation, suspension, or revocation of a CPM credential, or suspension or denial of a NARM application.

A second complaint against a CPM or applicant initiates the NARM Grievance Mechanism. A complainant who does not agree that resolution was reached with the outcome of Complaint Review and wishes to initiate the Grievance Mechanism must file a second complaint within three months. A second complaint may also result from another complainant regarding a different course of care. The outcome of the NARM Grievance Mechanism is binding and failing to meet the stated requirements results in the revocation of a CPM’s credential, conditional suspension or denial of an application.

A complaint will be addressed with the Grievance Mechanism only if the client whose course of care has prompted the complaint is willing to sign a records release. With a records release, her chart will be confidentially reviewed and discussed by the midwives participating in the Grievance Mechanism. Without the client’s permission to review her chart the complaint is closed.

The NARM Board reserves the right to evaluate, in its sole discretion, the appropriate application of NARM’s Complaint Review and Grievance Mechanism.

All complaints received against CPM Applicants will be reviewed by the NARM Board of Directors. NARM may deny an applicant certification status based on the results of a Complaint Review under the Grievance Mechanism.