Postpartum Doulas Provide Benefits for Newborns, Parents, and the Entire Family

What is a Doula?

Doulas are care providers who assist women during their pregnancies, perinatal, and birthing periods. A newer, more specific type of doula service – known as Postpartum Doulas - is becoming popular across the country as families seek support for the few weeks immediately following the birth.

Are doulas covered by insurance?

Postpartum Doula services from Baby Bloom Newborn Care, are eligible for reimbursement through both private health insurance and Medicaid in the State of Rhode Island. In 2021, Rhode Island lawmakers passed legislation that expanded private insurance and Medicaid allowances to cover doula services – making it the only state in the nation that does so. The National Institute of Health (NIH) states that doula care can result in 57.5% lower odds of postpartum depression/postpartum anxiety (PPD/PPA).

What is covered?

Insurance allows patients access to a total of 6 perinatal doula sessions. These visits are offered virtually & in-person, and families have a range of support options to choose from.

  • Baby Registry Checklist or Audit

  • Infant Sleep Education

  • Postpartum Planning

  • Newborn Care Education

  • In-home Visits

How baby bloom is bringing perinatal doula services to the next level

“We were excited when Rhode Island lawmakers passed legislation that expanded private insurance and Medicaid allowances to cover doula services,” noted Tyler Grimes, CEO of Baby Bloom. “As a result, we are able to expand the coverage of doula services to a greater number of families in this state, and include the coverage of services to those all-important first few weeks following a birth.”

She added, “Importantly, Rhode Island is showcasing that maternal health is a priority in their communities and is standing as a leader at the forefront of improving postpartum outcomes for the entire family – including the siblings.”

To learn more about why postpartum doula services are important, read here.

Hiring a doula can be a game-changer for new parents. It’s about more than getting enough sleep; it’s about finding balance, peace of mind, and enjoying the precious early moments with your little one. If you’re ready to hire your doula in Rhode Island, reach out to us to schedule your free consultation today!

Tyler Lucchese