US States Expand Medicaid for Doula Care

Several US states, including United States===Utah, United States===Colorado, and United States===Montana, are expanding United States===Medicaid coverage for doula care, particularly for pregnant and postpartum individuals with substance use disorder. This initiative aims to address the nation's maternal mortality and addiction crises, as mental health conditions and substance use are leading causes of maternal death. Organizations like One Health and the University of Colorado are training peer recovery doulas, many of whom have personal recovery experience, to advocate for patients and build trust. The University of Utah's SUPeRAD Clinic, led by Dr. Marcela Smid, serves a large number of patients from rural areas, highlighting the critical need for accessible care. The federal United States===Rural Health Transformation Program is also providing funds to states to expand behavioral and maternal healthcare access, especially in underserved communities. This expansion of coverage is seen as a crucial step towards making doula services sustainable and improving patient outcomes.