According to the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission, pregnant individuals with Medicaid coverage are more likely to have preterm births and low-birthweight infants compared to those with private insurance.1 These are key indicators of birth outcomes and overall maternal and infant health. Recognizing the effectiveness of doula services in improving these outcomes, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina is collaborating with the Doula Network. This collaboration aims to provide comprehensive doula support throughout pregnancy, childbirth and the early months of parenthood to Medicaid members.
Role of the doula
Doulas are trained professionals who offer emotional, physical and educational support to mothers before, during and after childbirth.2 Their services typically begin a few months before the expected birth date, providing education about the birthing process and assisting in developing a birth plan. During labor, doulas offer comfort through pain-relief techniques such as relaxation methods, massage and labor positions, aiming to ensure a positive and safe birth experience. Postpartum, doulas help new mothers initiate breastfeeding and encourage bonding with the newborn and other family members.
The Doula Network, founded in 2019, is a doula-owned organization dedicated to recognizing community-based birth doulas as maternal health professionals eligible for Medicaid and private insurance reimbursement.3 The organization works to unite key stakeholders, advocate for Medicaid reimbursement and leverage technology and community resources to improve access to doula services.
By expanding access to doula services, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina aims to enhance maternal and infant health, as well as implement culturally competent care. Doulas in this program receive training in cultural competency to provide personalized services. The plan additionally aims to provide members with invaluable education and support throughout their birthing journey. By focusing on Medicaid populations, the program will address disparities that exist in maternal and infant health outcomes.
Research supports the benefits of doula care. A study published in the Cureus Journal of Medical Sciene found that mothers who used doula services were four times less likely to have a low-birth-weight baby and twice as likely to avoid birth complications.4
Anita Bachmann, CEO of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina, commented, “Research shows that doula care can lead to better outcomes for pregnant individuals and babies. We are pleased to offer our members who have Medicaid coverage increased access to doula services to foster healthier pregnancies and births.”
UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina remains dedicated to improving health outcomes for pregnant Medicaid members. By expanding access to doula services through this collaboration, the plan aims to support healthier pregnancies and births, ultimately contributing to better health outcomes for mothers and infants across North Carolina. For more information on how UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of North Carolina is supporting its local community, visit the plan’s website.
