Dr. Rae Banks, DrPH, MBA-HM, CD (DONA)

About me

Birth is unpredictable. Being prepared doesn't have to be. Do you ever wonder... - Will I know when it's really time to go to the hospital? - What happens if my birth doesn't go according to plan? - How can I avoid feeling overwhelmed during labor? - Will my partner know how to support me? - What if I need an induction, epidural, or even an unexpected C-section? - How do I make confident decisions in the moment? When we work me, I'll help you prepare for the birth you actually have—not just the one you hope for. I support both normal and high-risk pregnancies through personalized prenatal coaching. You'll understand what to expect from the first signs of labor through the Golden Hour, learn how to navigate unexpected situations, communicate confidently with your healthcare team, and approach birth feeling informed, empowered, and ready. I proudly serve families covered by Kaiser Permanente, giving birth at Oakland, Walnut Creek, Antioch, and Vallejo. I also support all Medi-Cal patients, regardless of health plan. If you're delivering in Contra Costa County or at Kaiser, I'll join you in person for your hospital birth. Families outside the area can receive the same comprehensive birth preparation through convenient telehealth appointments. I'm a Doctor of Public Health and Certified Birth Doula, originally trained by UC Davis Medical Center to support high-risk births, where I continue to volunteer. I later completed certification through DONA International and maintain current background clearance and medical clearance. Ready to prepare with confidence? Schedule your initial telehealth prenatal visit at www.yesidoula.com. If you're still deciding, have questions about insurance, or simply nervous, book a complimentary consultation and let's talk about your goals. Looking forward to meeting you! - Dr. Rae

Education

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) (2025)

MBA, Heathcare Administration (MBA-HM) (2017)

Certification and training

DONA International Birth & Postpartum Doula Workshop (2025)

UC Davis Medical Center, Doula Training Program (2024)

Memberships and affiliations

DONA International

Credentials

Specialties

Languages

English

Accepted insurance

Service introduction

I accept insurance. I verify your eligibility, doula benefits, and file all claims so you can just focus on your health. My services are aligned with your benefits, which commonly covers 11 doula visits plus birth support - no copays or deductibles. We can work together to customize this package, as needed. 1 Initial visit 6 prenatal visits 1 hospital-based birth support w/immediate postpartum support 1 In-home postpartum visit - 3 hrs 1 telehealth postpartum visit Please note that all non-hospital-based services can be provided via telehealth.

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