UnitedHealthcare expands doula coverage through employer-sponsored plans

UnitedHealthcare has announced an expansion of doula coverage for members in eligible employer-sponsored health plans, according to a news release. The program, called Doula Support, makes UnitedHealthcare the first major insurer to offer a doula benefit.

Doula Support is currently rolling out in phases and will reach approximately 7.2 million UnitedHealthcare members by Jan. 1, 2027.

Doulas are trained, non-medical professionals who provide emotional, physical, and informational support to individuals before, during, and after childbirth. Unlike obstetricians or midwives, doulas do not deliver babies or provide clinical care. Instead, they focus on supporting the birthing person’s comfort, advocating for their preferences, and helping families navigate the childbirth experience. Their services often extend into the postpartum period, assisting with recovery, infant care and family adjustment.

Eligible members enrolled in Doula Support will have the option to connect with doulas either virtually or in person, depending on their preferences and plan details. Coverage may include a set number of visits or a reimbursement allowance, offering flexibility for how services are accessed. Importantly, doula care can be initiated at any stage of pregnancy and continue through the postpartum period, allowing for continuity of care during a critical time.

The expansion comes amid ongoing concerns about maternal health in the United States. The country continues to have the highest maternal mortality rate among high-income nations, with approximately 22 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to a study by The Commonwealth Fund, which used data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This rate significantly exceeds that of peer countries. For example, the next highest rate is in Chile, with 14 deaths per 100,000 live births. In Sweden, there is one death per 100,000 births, on average.

Research suggests that doula care may help address some of these challenges. Studies have linked doula support to lower rates of preterm birth and cesarean delivery, as well as improved breastfeeding outcomes. Additionally, one study found that access to doula services was associated with a 57% reduction in postpartum anxiety and depression, highlighting the potential mental health benefits of continuous, personalized support throughout the perinatal period.

This expansion may be extra significant for pregnant people of color. The Commonwealth Fund report also shows that Black women in the United States have the highest death rate during childbirth, with 50 deaths per 100,000 live births. Contributing factors include discrimination and clinician bias. A separate study found that Black patients received worse care than White patients on 52% of measures, including care coordination and patient safety.

Postpartum care remains another area of concern. A follow-up visit is typically recommended 4 to 6 weeks after childbirth to check up on the physical and mental recovery after birth for both the mother and child. However, an estimated 2 in 5 women miss this appointment, often due to lack of insurance coverage or other access challenges. This is especially concerning because nearly 2 of 3 maternal deaths occur during the postpartum period, up to 42 days following birth, the Commonwealth Fund report shows.

“We believe that everyone deserves meaningful support through their maternity journey,” Rebecca Madsen, CEO of Advocacy, Behavioral and Clinical for UnitedHealthcare, said in the UnitedHealthcare news release. “Expanding doula access may help give more people personalized, whole-person support.”