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HB 1614

Postpartum doula care; DMAS to amend state plan for medical assistance services.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Askew and 16 co-sponsors

Virginia requires Medicaid to cover postpartum doula services starting July 2025, expanding maternal support access for low-income families.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0690)
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Bill Summary · HB 1614

Legislative bill overview

HB 1614 requires the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services (DMAS) to amend its state Medicaid plan to include coverage for postpartum doula care services. Postpartum doulas provide non-medical support to birthing people during the postpartum period, including assistance with newborn care, household tasks, and emotional support. The bill became effective July 1, 2025.

Why is this important

This expansion of Medicaid coverage addresses maternal health outcomes and reduces disparities in postpartum support access, as low-income individuals often cannot afford private doula services. Research indicates postpartum doulas can improve maternal mental health, breastfeeding success, and overall recovery outcomes. The policy also recognizes doula care as a legitimate health support service worthy of public investment.

Potential points of contention

  • Medicaid cost implications: Expanding Medicaid benefits increases state and federal expenditures, with unclear budgetary projections for doula service utilization and reimbursement rates
  • Definition and regulation concerns: Questions about what qualifies as "postpartum doula care," certification standards, training requirements, and oversight mechanisms to ensure service quality
  • Scope of non-medical services: Debate over whether Medicaid should fund support services traditionally considered outside clinical healthcare, and how to distinguish doula services from nursing or midwifery care

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

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