Doula Program

Doula services are aimed at preventing perinatal complications and improving health outcomes for birthing parents and infants. The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) added doula services as a covered benefit in January 2023. Doula services require a recommendation or referral by a physician or other licensed practitioner.

Doulas are birth workers who provide health education, advocacy, and physical, emotional, and non-medical support for pregnant and postpartum persons before, during, and after childbirth, including support during miscarriage, stillbirth, and abortion. They are not licensed and do not require supervision.

Doulas:

• May provide services for up to 12 months from the end of pregnancy; beneficiaries are eligible to receive full-scope Medi-Cal Managed Care (Medi-Cal) coverage for at least 12 months after pregnancy.
• Provide person-centered, culturally competent care that supports the racial, ethnic, linguistic, and cultural diversity of members while adhering to evidence-based best practices.
• Offer various types of support, including health navigation, lactation support, development of a birth plan, and linkages to community-based resources.

Visit the California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) page of our website for additional information about our Doula Program and doula resources, including a provider guide, provider manual, benefit recommendation form, and flyer.

We encourage you to share doula services information with your patients. Through genuine collaboration, we can simplify access to care and help you deliver high-quality, equitable healthcare.