This measure directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to study the benefits of abortion doula care and coverage. It defines abortion doula care as non-clinical emotional, social, informational, and physical support given before, during, and after medication and procedural abortions. The Secretary must collect anonymized data from people who received doula care, doulas, and providers; review academic literature; consult experts and community-based organizations; and assess availability and access in all States. The study must be completed and reported to two congressional committees and made publicly available within 18 months of enactment. The report must include potential benefits and challenges, suggestions to increase access (especially in underserved or rural areas), and policy considerations for State Medicaid plans or waivers.
If you seek or provide abortion doula care, this study would gather information about experiences, access, and barriers. The study could inform State Medicaid programs and others about ways to cover or expand doula services, but the measure itself does not change coverage or require Medicaid to pay for services. The report will be public, so community groups, health providers, and policymakers will be able to read the findings and recommendations.
No publicly available information.
The bill text says abortion doulas provide critical emotional, social, informational, and practical support and can improve patient experience. It cites past studies showing high patient satisfaction with doula support during first-trimester procedural abortions and evidence from birth-related doula support linked to better outcomes. Supporters in the text say doulas can help people navigate care, provide culturally and linguistically relevant support, and connect people to community resources. The text also notes barriers to doula access, such as low pay, lack of Medicaid coverage in many States, limited public awareness, and challenges entering and credentialing in the field.
No publicly available information.