Doula Services
NOW COVERED UNDER MEDI-CAL
What You Need
to Know
Implementation Date
The Department of Health Care Services (DCHS) added doula services as a covered benefit on January 1, 2023.
DHCS Submitted State Plan Amendment (SPA) 22-0002 to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and received federal approval for SPA 22-0002 on January 26, 2023.
Doula Services
Doula services include personal support to birthing persons and families throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum experience. This support encompasses emotional and physical assistance provided during pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period.
Recommendation Requirement
Pursuant to federal regulations, doula services must be recommended by a licensed healthcare provider.
Publication of Medi-Cal Provider Manual
DHCS published the Medi-Cal Provider Manual for doula services on December 16, 2022.
California Doulas
Doulas Looking to Become
Medi-Cal Approved
Visit the DCHS website for details, application, requirements and more.
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Individuals & families looking for doula services covered under Medi-Cal
Doula Coverage Includes
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Prenatal Support Visits
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Postpartum Support Visits
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Labor/ Birth Support
Potential Benefits of Having a Doula
Research shows doulas can promote better health outcomes like decreased rates of cesarean sections, reduced need for pain medications, increased breastfeeding/lactation rates, and reduced health disparities for birthing people and their families.
Reach out to Birthworkers of Color Collective for all your Medi-Cal Doula Benefit Inquiries
Request a Medi-Cal Doula
Get to know our Medi-Cal Doulas
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