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Panel urges coordinated doula referral process to ease burden on patients
Summary
Committee members recommended a coordinated referral system and a searchable doula directory (filters for language, training, region) to reduce the burden on patients who currently must secure doula support themselves.
During discussion of the hospital survey, members expressed concern that many hospitals "place the burden on the patient" to find and secure a doula, which can disadvantage higher-risk or less-connected patients. One participant suggested the subcommittee recommend a coordinated referral plan so patients can be connected prenatally rather than relying on ad hoc, patient-arranged support.
The group also discussed building a doula registry or searchable directory with filters for language, region and training that hospitals and providers could use to make referrals. Dalian emphasized the potential value of a directory that allows patients to filter by cultural fit and language, saying the ability to filter could help patients "find a doula before coming into the hospital setting." The subcommittee asked DPH and volunteer members to explore options and return specific recommendations.
