This resource compiles best practices and lessons learned from states to support planning, implementing, and sustaining Medicaid coverage for doula services.

Background

As more states establish Medicaid coverage for doula services, policymakers and state agencies are navigating questions about what design supports successful implementation. Drawn from lessons across multiple states, the National Health Law Program developed this tool to highlight strategies, approaches, and recommendations that can help expand access to doula services for Medicaid populations.

About this Resource

Informed by state agency staff, doulas, advocates, and other stakeholders across multiple states, this tool supports those working to implement Medicaid coverage for doula care and navigate related discussions. The best practices included in the tool are organized into three phases: (1) pre-implementation, which focuses on program design, pilot opportunities, stakeholder engagement, certification requirements, and reimbursement; (2) implementation, with best practices on provider enrollment and documentation; and (3) ongoing implementation to ensure that benefits and care can be sustained through dedicated funding, training, and evaluation.

Program/Policy Takeaways

State agencies and doula providers can use this tool to inform emerging and ongoing activities related to doula care and explore the Doula Medicaid Project to support access to prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care.