New York State Doula Pilot Program

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On April 23, 2018, New York State announced a comprehensive initiative to target maternal mortality and reduce racial disparities in health outcomes. This initiative included a pilot program to provide Medicaid coverage for doula services to pregnant and postpartum people. A doula, also known as a birth companion, birth coach, or post-birth supporter, is a non-medical person who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to pregnant people before, during, and after delivery. Doulas receive training from either a national organization or a community-based organization, and these trainings vary in content, requirements, and duration. There are no universally accepted standards for doula certification and doulas are not licensed. Doulas do not prescribe treatment, complete a physical or behavioral health assessment, or provide medical care or advice.

Starting on March 1, 2019, pregnant people who were enrolled in Medicaid and living in Erie County were eligible to enroll in the New York State Doula Pilot Program. The pilot was initially established for a two-year period and was extended. Reimbursement for doula services will continue through February 29, 2024, and doulas were able to enroll in the pilot through February 28, 2023. All doulas who are currently enrolled in New York State Medicaid via the Doula Services Pilot will remain enrolled through February 28, 2025. To revalidate on or before February 28, 2025, doulas who are currently enrolled in New York State Medicaid via the Doula Services Pilot will need to follow updated revalidation requirements according to statewide guidelines.

To date, 1,108 people enrolled in one of six different Medicaid Managed Care Plans or Medicaid Fee-for-Service have participated in the pilot program.

The pilot covers up to four visits with the doula before delivery, up to four visits with the doula after delivery, and doula support during labor and delivery. To date, approximately 82% of claims are for prenatal visits, 6% are for labor and delivery support, and 12% are for postpartum visits.

Participating people are all sent a survey to assess satisfaction and experience with the pilot. To date, 95% of respondents said having a doula improved or somewhat improved their childbirth experience and 93% of respondents rated their doula as good or excellent.

A report has been published sharing findings from focus groups conducted with pilot doulas and pilot doula clients. The September 2023 report can be accessed here: Findings from Focus Groups of Doulas and Clients in Buffalo (PDF).

Updated through February 20, 2024

For more information or questions, e-mail DoulaPilot@health.ny.gov.