As the nation struggles to address the maternal and infant health crisis, the demand for doula care reimbursement has continued to grow with 43 states and Washington, D.C. taking steps towards reimbursement.
Research shows doula care improves maternity outcomes and health equity, particularly among Black mothers. Compared to high-risk pregnant patients who do not receive doula care, patients under doula care during labor and delivery are 2x less likely to have a birth complication, 4x less likely to have a low birthweight baby, 40% less likely to have a cesarean delivery, and experience lower rates of preterm birth – improving outcomes, lowering cost, and reducing disparities.