Weinberg-Gill Bill Would Seek Medicaid Coverage for ‘Doula’ Care for Childbirths

Birth Companions Improve Labor & Delivery

Trenton – Legislation sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Loretta Weinberg and Senator Nia Gill that would promote the use of “doulas” for assisting in childbirth gained the approval of a Senate committee today.

A doula is a nonmedical birth companion and post birth supporter who provides assistance and emotional support, but not medical care, before, during and after childbirth. (The word doula is a Greek term meaning “women’s servant.”)

“Research shows that one of the most useful tools to improve labor and delivery outcomes is the continuous presence of a doula,” said Senator Weinberg (D-Bergen). “It reduces the cesarean rate by 50 percent, and women experience a more positive child birth experience when doulas are present. It has also been proven that doulas reduce the length of labor by 25 percent.”

The bill, S-1784, would seek the expansion of the state Medicaid program to include coverage for doula care by having the Commissioner of Human Services apply for federal amendments or waivers under the federal Medicaid program.

“Doulas help their clients gain a better understanding of the procedures and possible complications in pregnancy or delivery, when they are in constant and close proximity to the mother,” said Senator Gill (D-Essex/Passaic). “They have the ability to provide comfort with pain-relief techniques including breathing techniques, relaxation techniques, massage and laboring positions.”

The legislation was approved by the Senate Budget and Appropriations Committee.