Doula
Doula Program For Pregnant and Postpartum Women
A doula is a nonclinical professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational
support to mothers before, during, and
after childbirth.
Visits during pregnancy period to include availability throughout pregnancy and postpartum:
- Ongoing birthing support during labor and delivery.
- Visits up to and including postpartum period to provide post birth education (self-care, feeding, sudden infant death
syndrome [SIDS] avoidance, mental health awareness, etc.) - Referrals to childbirth classes and community resources.
Evidence shows that working with a doula can lead to:
- Shorter labors.
- Fewer requests for epidurals.
- Less frequent use of forceps or vacuum.
- Increased confidence in birth partners.
- Fewer cesareans (or lower cesarean rates).
- Increased success for breastfeeding.
- More time to bond with the baby.
- An easier transition into parenthood.
Studies have shown that having a doula as a member of the birth team decreases the overall cesarean rate by 50%, the length of labor by 24%, the use of oxytocin by 40%, and request for an epidural by 60%.
Anthem HealthKeepers Plus members are eligible to receive doula services.
To learn more about this member benefit, contact Provider Services for Anthem HealthKeepers Plus Provider Services at 800-901-0020.
For member inquiries, contact Member Services for Anthem HealthKeepers Plus Member Services at 800-901-0020.
For provider assistance with becoming a participating doula, contact [email protected].
For provider escalation and claim assistance, contact [email protected].
