"We Are All There to Make Sure the Baby Comes Out Healthy":: A Qualitative Study of Doulas' and Licensed Providers' Views on Doula Care.

Abstract

Policymakers are exploring ways to expand access to doula care to address persistent inequities in maternal and infant health across the United States. Doulas are non-medical professionals who provide physical, emotional, and informational support to birthing people before, during and after childbirth. Growing evidence supports the role of doulas in improved birth outcomes. Delaware is among several states moving towards Medicaid reimbursement for doula care to serve those most at risk. Objective: To gain an in-depth understanding of key stakeholders' knowledge, attitudes, beliefs and experiences regarding doula training and certification, relationships among providers, and other potential needs related to infrastructure to identify areas of agreement and inform policy change in the state of Delaware. Methods: We conducted focus groups with 11 doulas and key-informant interviews with 12 licensed providers practicing in Delaware, including six nurses, four physicians and two certified nurse midwives. Qualitative data was collected via Zoom (video conferencing) between September 2022 and April 2023. Results: Analysis revealed themes related to training, credentials and competencies of doulas, including cultural competence; logistical, administrative, and financial considerations for policy and practice change; and the whole care team-relationships between doulas and medical partners, and opportunities for growth. Conclusions: Doulas and licensed providers agree on key elements of doula training, the value of certification, the need for financial support, and the importance of relationship-building across the care team. Policy implications: Areas of agreement among stakeholders provide a foundation for state leaders to move forward to ensure the delivery of the most accessible, high quality, and culturally competent doula care for birthing people in Delaware.