Oregon Health Plan (OHP) Doula Coverage – FAQ

1. Q: What does OHP cover with their doula package?

A: The birth doula package includes:

• 2 prenatal visits

• Support during labor and delivery

• 2 postpartum visits plus, up to 4 additional visits (used anytime before or after birth, within 12 months).

Here is more information on pregnancy care with OHP and HERE is information on the OHP doula plan on their website.

Here is a link to the evidence behind doula care to improve maternal health outcomes by Rebecca Dekker, PhD, RN.

2. Q: What if a parent doesn't use a birth doula?

   A: They can still receive 6 postpartum doula visits within the first year after birth.

3. Q: Can visits be split up however a parent wants?

   A: Yes. The 4 additional visits in the birth doula package are flexible — prenatal, postpartum, or a mix. There are 8 total visits, 2 must be used prenatally, 2 must be used postpartum and the extra 4 can be split up however the parent wants.

4. Q: How long after birth can visits be used?

   A: Postpartum doula visits may be used anytime in the first 12 months after birth.

   
   

5. Q: Is there a cost for OHP members?

   A: No. OHP-covered doula care is free for members.

6. Q: How does one find an OHP approved doula?

   A: Ask your provider, care coordinator, or insurance plan for help connecting with an OHP-approved doula. Portland New Family Fund can also help. Simply fill out one these HIPPA compliant forms:

Click Here to Refer Yourself

Click Here to Refer a Parent

7. Q: Who can provide OHP-covered doula services?

   A: Only doulas who are state-certified (Traditional Health Worker – Doula) and enrolled with OHP can be reimbursed. OHP doulas are state-certified and trained in prenatal care, birth support, and postpartum care. They have hands-on experience and are approved to provide services through Oregon Health Plan.

   
   

8. Q: What if a patient already has a doula in mind?

   A: As long as that doula is OHP-approved, they can provide services and bill OHP. If not, encourage the doula to complete certification and enrollment.

   
   

9. Q: Can a patient get both a birth doula and postpartum-only doula care?

   A: Yes. Families may choose the birth doula package or opt for postpartum-only care (6 visits).

   
   

10. Q: Why should a parent have a doula?

    A: Research shows doulas improve outcomes by lowering cesarean rates, reducing preterm births, increasing breastfeeding, improving patient satisfaction, mental health and providing culturally specific care. They also help address disparities in maternal health.