Doulas: Providing trusted care that improves health and saves money
Doulas play an important role in supporting Kansas families, offering significant benefits to both mothers and babies. Their presence has been shown to improve health outcomes, enhance the birthing experience and reduce health care costs.
In Kansas, the urgency for solutions like doula care is clear.
Nearly half of all counties are classified as maternal health care deserts, forcing many women to travel long distances to access essential services.
Doulas, who provide non-medical support, can help bridge this growing gap in care, particularly in rural communities. They provide continuous emotional, physical and informational support during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period.
Integrating doula support into the maternal health landscape is a promising, cost-effective strategy to ensure mothers across our state receive the support they deserve, no matter where they live.
For these reasons, the Health Fund advocates for doulas as part of the care team.
Learn about successful recent efforts to add, recognize and reimburse doulas here.
RESOURCES:
VIEW FACT SHEET
LISTEN
Learn more about the history and purpose of doulas in our Pioneers in Health podcast interview with Sapphire Garcia, founder and executive director of the Kansas Birth Justice Society.
LEARN MORE
- Kansas Doula Alliance: Learn more about the work of doulas, how they improve health equity and doula training opportunities.
- Access to Maternity Care in Kansas report
