Georgia General Assembly approves Medicaid coverage for doula care to enhance maternal health

On April 4, 2025, the Georgia House Legislature introduced House Bill 925, a significant legislative proposal aimed at enhancing maternal health outcomes through the recognition and integration of doula care into the state's Medicaid program. This bill seeks to address critical issues surrounding maternal health, particularly for low-income women who rely on Medicaid for their healthcare needs.

The primary objective of House Bill 925 is to establish a pilot program that would provide Medicaid coverage for doula services, which are known to offer physical, emotional, and informational support to pregnant individuals. Research indicates that doula care can lead to substantial benefits, including reduced cesarean delivery rates, lower instances of preterm births, and improved breastfeeding outcomes. Notably, the bill highlights potential Medicaid cost savings of approximately $1,000 per birth, making a compelling case for the economic viability of integrating doula services into maternal healthcare.

Key provisions of the bill include the implementation of a one-year pilot program starting July 1, 2026, which would allow reimbursement for up to five doula visits for each pregnant Medicaid recipient. The program aims to cover various stages of care, including prepartum, labor, delivery, and postpartum support. Additionally, the Georgia Department of Health is tasked with monitoring compliance and reporting annually to relevant legislative committees on the program's progress and outcomes.

While the bill has garnered support for its potential to improve maternal health, it has also sparked debates regarding the role of doulas within the healthcare system and the implications of Medicaid funding for such services. Critics may raise concerns about the adequacy of training and certification for doulas, as well as the overall impact on existing healthcare practices.

The significance of House Bill 925 extends beyond its immediate provisions. By formally recognizing doula care as part of the maternal healthcare workforce, the bill could pave the way for broader reforms in how maternal health services are delivered in Georgia. Experts suggest that successful implementation of this pilot program could serve as a model for other states, potentially influencing national discussions on maternal health and Medicaid policy.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the bill's progress, with particular attention to its economic implications and the potential for improved health outcomes for vulnerable populations. The anticipated pilot program represents a proactive step toward addressing longstanding disparities in maternal healthcare access and quality, making House Bill 925 a pivotal piece of legislation in Georgia's ongoing efforts to enhance public health.