Doula Services Now Covered by Kaiser & Medi-Cal: What Families Need to Know
- Jessica G.
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
Across California, families are gaining access to a powerful new benefit: doula services covered by insurance. Thanks to new laws and expanded coverage, both Medi-Cal and Kaiser Permanente commercial plans now include doula care, helping families access support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum without worrying about out-of-pocket costs.
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Medi-Cal Covers Doula Support
The Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) now recognizes doula care as a covered preventive benefit under Medi-Cal. This means that Medi-Cal members have access to professional doula support as part of their maternity and postpartum care.
What’s included:
One 90-minute initial visit
Up to 8 prenatal and postpartum visits
Continuous support during labor and delivery (including miscarriage and abortion)
Two extended 3-hour postpartum visits
With a second recommendation: up to 9 additional postpartum visits within one year after pregnancy
Doula visits can happen at home, in the hospital, or virtually. DHCS also provides a Doula Directory where families can find qualified doulas in their area—organized by county, language, and specialties.
Why it matters: Research shows that doula care reduces C-sections, shortens labor, improves breastfeeding success, and increases overall satisfaction for birthing families.
Kaiser Permanente Commercial Plans Now Include Doula Care
Starting January 1, 2025, Kaiser Permanente extended doula coverage to its commercial health plans. This expansion is thanks to California Assembly Bill 904 (AB 904).
Covered services with Kaiser include:
Initial visit
Up to 8 prenatal and postpartum visits
Labor and delivery support (including miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion)
Two extended 3-hour postpartum visits
Good news: No referral or pre-authorization is required. As long as you are a member at the time of service, doula support is available to you.
Not covered: Clinical services (taking vitals), massage, yoga, placenta encapsulation, photography, or birthing ceremonies.
Why This Matters for Families
Having a doula is no longer a luxury, it is a covered health benefit for thousands of Californians. With this new coverage, families can focus on what matters most: welcoming their baby with confidence, care, and support.
Doulas provide more than comfort. They empower families with knowledge, advocacy, and emotional guidance through one of life’s biggest transitions.
Contact us:
Check Your Insurance Eligibility Today
Book a Free Benefits Consultation
Let’s Create Your Doula Care Plan
Links for more information
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