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Midwifery was legally recognized in Alberta in 1992. Midwives in Alberta are registered under the Health Disciplines Board by the Midwifery Health Disciplines Committee, which sets the standards and educational requirements.  Until recently in Alberta, families have paid out of pocket for the services of a midwife, but starting April 1, 2009, midwifery was added to the maternity services covered by Alberta Health Services.

Midwives in Alberta attend both home and hospital births. In some health authorities, midwives have hospital admitting privileges, which means they can provide primary care in the hospital. Admitting privileges vary from region to region.

Midwives are autonomous practitioners whose scope of practice parallels that of a family doctor. In addition, midwifery care includes expert, consistent support thoughout pregnancy, childbirth and the early weeks of parenthood.