Are Doulas Covered by Insurance?

Doula Insurance Coverage: How to Get Birth and Postpartum Support PaidAre Doulas Covered by Insurance?

Everything you need to know about doulas and insurance coverage.

Does Insurance Cover Doula Support?

Expecting parents are increasingly discovering the benefits of hiring a doula during pregnancy, labor, birth, and the early postpartum period. Research shows that birthing people who work with a doula are less likely to have cesarean sections, tend to experience shorter labors, and require fewer medical interventions. They also report more positive birth experiences compared to those who go without a doula.

These benefits explain why doula support has become so popular. Yet, many families wonder: “Will my insurance cover the cost of a doula?”

Unfortunately, most insurance companies do not classify doulas as medical professionals or “essential care.” As a result, traditional insurance plans typically do not cover doula services. However, changes in healthcare policies and creative payment options are making doula support more accessible than ever.

When Are Doulas Covered by Insurance?

While most private insurance plans do not fully cover a doula, some offer optional maternity care bundles. These bundles may include prenatal, birth, and postpartum doula support, helping families access care without overextending their budgets. To take advantage, check your insurance benefits carefully and ask about maternity bundles that include doula services.

Another option is using your HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account). IRS regulations allow you to pay for 100% of a doula’s fee through these accounts. To comply legally, you need a receipt or invoice from your doula and a “Letter of Medical Necessity” signed by your doctor.

Low-Income Families and Medicaid Coverage

Access to doula support can be challenging for low-income families. Fortunately, political and legislative efforts are expanding coverage. In states like Oregon, Medicaid now covers birth doula services for qualifying families. Nationwide, legislation is working to make doula support more accessible for lower-income individuals and families, helping ensure every birthing parent can receive the support they deserve.

Steps to Get Doula Support Covered

Even if your insurance doesn’t directly cover doula services, you may still be able to receive partial reimbursement. Here’s what to do:

1. Check Your Policy: Contact your insurance provider to understand their rules and coverage options.
2. Request a Superbill from Your Doula: This document contains essential information for insurance claims.
3. Submit Your Claim: Include the superbill with your insurance claim form.

A proper superbill should include:

• Doula’s legal name, business name, address, and phone number
• NPI (National Provider Identifier) number
• EIN/Tax Number or Social Security Number of the doula
• CPT Codes (Birth Doula: 99499; Postpartum Doula: 99501 & 99502)
• Diagnosis Codes (Birth Doula: V22.2; Postpartum Doula: V24.2)
• Dates and description of services provided
• Doula’s signature

What Doula Services Are Covered?

In-Person Support:
Your doula can support you in your home, birth center, or hospital. Insurance coverage is generally not impacted by location.

Virtual Support:
Virtual doula services have become increasingly popular, especially for families in rural areas or those who connect with a doula outside their local region. If your insurance covers in-person services, it typically covers virtual doula support as well.

Have More Questions About Insurance and Doula Support?

We’re here to help! At Birthing Days, our Portland-Metro-based doulas can guide you through insurance coverage, reimbursement options, and all the ways to make doula care work for your family. Contact us today to speak with an experienced doula and get the support you deserve.