The license of a Georgetown, Texas midwife has been suspended following investigations into the deaths of a mother and infant under her care. Salli Gonzalez, 66, is prohibited from practicing midwifery in Texas pending further action, according to the Texas Department of Licenses and Regulations (TDLR).
License Suspension Details
The investigations focused on the death of an infant in February 2023 and a mother in April 2023. TDLR determined that Gonzalez did not adhere to established standards of care as outlined in the Texas Midwifery Law and Rules.
Further investigation revealed a social media exchange between Gonzalez and another midwife regarding complications in a patient’s condition. According to TDLR, Gonzalez reportedly stated, “Those things are not concerning to me,” in response to a discussion about a situation that would typically warrant transferring the patient to a hospital.
TDLR stated that Gonzalez’s response and failure to recognize the necessitate for escalation could potentially endanger future pregnant clients and their babies. The department concluded that emergency action was necessary to safeguard public health and safety.
In addition to the license suspension, TDLR cited Gonzalez for using a surgical instrument for purposes beyond umbilical cord cutting or emergency first aid, failing to maintain complete and legible patient records, and failing to practice midwifery in a manner consistent with public health and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the suspension of Salli Gonzalez’s license?
The suspension followed investigations into the deaths of an infant in February 2023 and a mother in April 2023, with TDLR finding that Gonzalez did not follow the standards of care and provisions of the Texas Midwifery Law and Rules.
What was Gonzalez’s reported response to concerns about patient complications?
TDLR reported that Gonzalez wrote, “Those things are not concerning to me,” in a social media discussion with another midwife regarding complications that would typically require a patient transfer.
What could happen next in this case?
Gonzalez cannot practice midwifery in Texas unless a court restores her license. This proves possible she could contest the suspension, and a legal process will likely unfold to determine the future of her license.
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