Many States Cover Doula Care, but Access to a ‘Birthing Bestie’ Is Often Out of Reach By Rachel Spears Aug. 10, 2026

https://kffhealthnews.org/public-health/doula-care-medicaid-access-expectant-parents-state-policy-virginia/ Doula care is now covered by Medicaid in 26 states and Washington, D.C., as lawmakers look to improve maternal health outcomes and reduce the nation's high maternal mortality rate. Virginia was an early adopter in 2022, but doulas there, such as Taja Iglesias, say administrative and logistical hurdles are making it harder for moms to access the care Medicaid is meant to provide.