Does Kaiser Cover a Doula in California?

Often, yes. Kaiser Permanente says care from its contracted doulas is covered at no extra cost for California members on specific plans. So there are really two things to check: whether your plan includes the benefit, and whether your doula is contracted with Kaiser.

What does Kaiser doula care cost?

Most members pay nothing. Some plan types do have a copay, and your doula or Orka can help you figure out what applies to yours.

Does my doula have to be contracted with Kaiser?

Yes. Every Kaiser doula now has to be contracted with Kaiser and credentialed with Medi-Cal. Kaiser says it won't cover doulas who aren't in its directory, so you'd be paying for that care yourself.

Do I need a referral?

No. Kaiser says you don't need to ask your doctor before seeing a doula. If your doula will be with you at the birth, let your care team know ahead of time and add your doula to your birth preferences.

What's included, and what isn't

Your Kaiser doula care can include:

• An initial visit
• Eight prenatal or postpartum visits, virtual or in person
• Birth support, virtual or in person
• Two extended postpartum visits of three hours each
• For Kaiser Medi-Cal members, up to nine additional postpartum visits
• Abortion support
• Loss support, including after a miscarriage or stillbirth

Kaiser also lists several services its doula benefit doesn't cover, including:

• Clinical tasks, such as blood pressure checks or vaginal exams
• Help with errands or laundry
• Massage, yoga and aromatherapy
• Home birth
• Placenta encapsulation and birth photography

How to find a doula Kaiser covers

1. Confirm your benefit. Call Member Services at 1-800-464-4000 (TTY 711) or check your Evidence of Coverage.
2. Find contracted doulas near you. Kaiser's directory lists them by county, with phone numbers.
3. Talk to a few. Ask about their experience and how they like to work. Make sure they're free around your due date and can get to your home and hospital.

And if your needs change along the way, you can switch to another contracted doula.

Looking for a doula? Orka Health is a doula provider group in network with Kaiser in Northern California, and we can help you find one. Find a doula who accepts your insurance.

Source: Kaiser Permanente: Doula services. Coverage varies by plan, so confirm yours with Member Services.