They started covering it in alberta about 3 years ago. And I would echo the support, I have become a huge fan.
Like the OP, I am a total science guy and was skeptical of the 'new age' midwifery. I found my concerns were totally incorrect. They had extensive science and data based knowledge, and expertise in the pregnancy and birthing process. We used one again for our second without hesitation.
We had planned a hospital birth with a midwife, but my wife went very fast and when the midwife arrived she suggested we have the baby at home. Ended up being fantastic, baby and Mom were healthy, and we didn't set foot inside a hospital. But I also liked the fact that I know many people who wanted home births but that didn't happen---the midwives won't hesitate to get you to the hospital if they have any concerns with how things are progressing. They are not hung up on trying to do it at home, and are in no way counter to mainstream medicine.
My only caution is that you have to get your name in as soon as you think you might be pregnant...now that it is covered by Alberta health it is difficult to get one. But if you can use a midwife, I would definitely recommend it.
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