To find Medicaid-covered doulas in Maryland, you'll want to navigate through a few steps, as Medicaid began reimbursing doula services for its members starting February 21, 2022. Doulas seeking to offer their services to Medicaid members must enroll with Maryland Medicaid and meet specific requirements, including being at least 18 years old, obtaining liability insurance, and attesting to training and certification by an organization approved by the Maryland Department of Health (MDH).
Maryland Medicaid covers up to 8 prenatal or postpartum services, each up to 60 minutes, and attendance during labor and delivery. The services that a doula can offer include continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the birthing parent throughout the perinatal period, providing person-centered care that respects the racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity of members while adhering to evidence-based best practices.
To find a Medicaid-covered doula in Maryland, you can take the following steps:
- Check Medicaid Coverage: Start by confirming whether Medicaid covers doula services in Maryland. Medicaid policies can vary by state and may cover doula services in some instances. Contact the Maryland Medicaid office or visit their website to inquire about coverage for doula services.
- Contact Medicaid: Reach out to the Maryland Medicaid office directly through their website or helpline to inquire about coverage for doula services. They can provide you with up-to-date information on eligibility criteria and how to access doula services through Medicaid.
- Search Online Directories: Look for online directories or databases that list healthcare providers, including doulas, who accept Medicaid in Maryland. Websites like Bornbir allow you to search for doulas by location and services provided, including those who accept Medicaid.
- Ask Healthcare Providers: Contact local hospitals, birthing centers, or obstetricians/gynecologists in Maryland. They may have information about doulas who accept Medicaid patients or be able to refer you to a doula who offers services covered by Medicaid.
- Community Resources: Reach out to community health centers, maternity clinics, or organizations that support maternal health in Maryland. They might have resources or recommendations for finding Medicaid-covered doulas.
- Medicaid Managed Care Plans: If you're enrolled in a Medicaid managed care plan, check with your plan provider. Some managed care plans offer additional benefits beyond traditional Medicaid, which may include coverage for doula services.
- Social Media and Support Groups: Join online forums, social media groups, or local community groups related to childbirth and parenting in Maryland. Members of these communities might have recommendations or firsthand experiences with Medicaid-covered doulas.
- Contact Doula Organizations: Reach out to doula organizations or associations in Maryland. They may have resources or referrals for finding doulas who accept Medicaid.
When considering a doula, be sure to verify their credentials, experience, and willingness to accept Medicaid as payment. Additionally, double-check with Maryland Medicaid regarding coverage and any associated costs.