Connecticut's House Bill 7214 is set to reshape maternity care by promoting doula support in hospitals, a move that advocates argue could significantly improve birth outcomes. Introduced on March 12, 2025, the bill aims to establish an advisory committee tasked with studying the benefits and challenges of integrating doulas into hospital settings.

The committee will comprise a diverse group of stakeholders, including public health officials, hospital administrators, practicing doulas, and maternal health advocates. Their mission is to assess current hospital policies on doula access and evaluate how doula support impacts maternal health metrics such as mortality rates, cesarean section rates, and overall patient satisfaction.

Key provisions of the bill include a comprehensive analysis of systemic barriers that hinder the incorporation of doulas into maternity care, as well as exploring financial models for reimbursing doula services through Medicaid and private insurance. The findings from this study are expected to culminate in a report due by February 1, 2026, which will inform legislative recommendations aimed at making hospitals more doula-friendly.

While the bill has garnered support from maternal health advocates who emphasize the importance of doula support, it faces scrutiny regarding potential financial implications for hospitals and insurance providers. Critics express concerns about the feasibility of implementing such changes within existing healthcare frameworks.

As the bill progresses, its implications could extend beyond maternity care, potentially influencing broader discussions on healthcare accessibility and equity, particularly for underserved populations. If successful, House Bill 7214 could pave the way for a more supportive and holistic approach to childbirth in Connecticut, setting a precedent for other states to follow.