WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

S 789

An Act relative to insurance coverage for doula services

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by John Keenan and 2 co-sponsors

Massachusetts bill mandates health insurance coverage for doula services to improve maternal care access and outcomes, shifting costs from individuals to insurers.

Accompanied a study order, see S3038
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 789

Legislative bill overview

S 789 would mandate that health insurance plans in Massachusetts cover doula services—non-medical labor support provided by trained birth coaches. The bill requires insurers to include doula care as a covered benefit, likely with specified qualifications and scope of services.

Why is this important

Doula services have grown in popularity, but insurance coverage remains inconsistent, making them financially inaccessible to many pregnant people. This bill would standardize access and potentially reduce out-of-pocket costs for maternity care, while also addressing documented disparities in maternal health outcomes where doula support has shown benefits.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Insurance companies may argue this expands covered benefits without corresponding premium increases, and dispute whether doulas reduce overall healthcare costs sufficiently to justify coverage
  • Credential standards: The bill must define what qualifications doulas need to have, which could exclude some practitioners or create barriers to entry in the profession
  • Medical necessity debate: Some healthcare providers question whether insurance should cover non-medical support services, versus treating doulas as optional wellness services similar to other complementary care

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.