Doula benefits and accompaniment during provider care

Anthem Blue Cross (Anthem) is sending this bulletin to let Medi-Cal Managed Care (Medi-Cal) providers know about the available doula benefit and the importance of reducing barriers for accompaniment during provider care. This is in accordance with All Plan Letter (APL) 22-031 Doula Services and access requirements for doula services.

Doulas are birth workers who provide health education, advocacy, and physical, emotional, and non-medical support for pregnant and postpartum persons. They are available before, during, and after childbirth and provide support during miscarriage, stillbirth, and abortion. Doulas are not licensed, nor do they require supervision.

Doula services can be provided virtually or in person. In-person meetings can occur in any setting, including, but not limited to, homes, office visits, hospitals, or alternative birth centers.

Anthem wants to ensure that all barriers are removed for members with doula services. Doulas should not be prohibited from accompanying members for prenatal visits, labor, and delivery support. They also should not be prohibited from postpartum visits regardless of outcome (stillbirth, abortion, miscarriage, live birth). Doulas are birth workers and an important part of a member’s care team. As such, members should be allowed to have a support person (spouse, partner, family) present in addition to their doula in all circumstances.

Contracted provider medical groups and independent physician associations should ensure that affiliated providers are made aware of the new doula benefit and that access to doulas is consistent and compliant with APL 22-031.

Should you have questions or concerns, contact your Medi-Cal Customer Care Center. Members outside of L.A. County should contact 800-407-4627. Members inside L.A. County should contact 888-285-7801. Thank you in advance.