This guide provides a framework to help health centers design, implement, and maintain community-based doula programs through workforce development, planning, and community engagement.

Background

Community-based doulas provide emotional and physical support to individuals during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum. They can support individuals at highest risk of perinatal complications and are associated with improved maternal health and birth outcomes. To address persisting maternal and child health care disparities, community health centers are increasingly integrating doula services into their care models. This guide was developed to support community health centers in planning, implementing, and sustaining doula training programs, drawing on insights learned from a national pilot initiative involving federally qualified health centers.

About this Resource

The guide is intended to support health centers, community organizations, and policy stakeholders who are interested in establishing or expanding doula services. It is intended to be adapted to fit the context of different communities and service populations. The tool is organized into two sections: Part A offers a framework for assessing community and workforce needs for action planning; Part B examines key areas to consider when starting a program, such as funding, recruitment, retention, and metrics to monitor. Case studies highlighting health centers and states with community-based doula programs demonstrate practical implementation strategies and key lessons.

Program/Policy Takeaways

Health centers, community-based organizations, and policymakers can use this guide to plan, implement, and sustain community-based doula programs tailored to local needs. The resource offers practical tools for workforce development, planning, financing, and evaluation, which can help organizations strengthen maternal health services and expand access to community-based support.