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AHCCCS now covers doula services

a pregnant person
Getty Images

Arizonans who get their health coverage through the state’s Medicaid program can now be reimbursed for the costs of doula care. Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System, known as AHCCCS, began covering doula services Oct. 1.

A doula is a trained, nonmedical professional who provides support before, during and after childbirth. And research has shown doula care can decrease the likelihood of C-sections, premature births, or other risks for parents and newborns.

“We’re really excited to be able to cover doula services for the first time in Arizona under the AHCCCS program,” said AHCCCS director, Carmen Heredia. “We believe this service is going to help address health disparities across Arizona.”

More than half of all births in Arizona are covered by AHCCCS. And Arizona’s maternal mortality rate is higher than the national average, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Last year, AHCCCS expanded postpartum eligibility so members can qualify for care up to a year after the end of a pregnancy — coverage used to last just 60 days. This year, AHCCCS also directed more funding for on-call maternity services to rural areas lacking those resources.

“The more that we provide education, increase testing and do a variety of community initiatives, I think we'll really move that needle and improve maternal health for Arizona residents,” Heredia said.

To take advantage of coverage for doulas, AHCCCS members must have their doctor approve doula services. And participating doulas must be registered with the state health department as an AHCCCS provider.

Katherine Davis-Young is a senior field correspondent reporting on a variety of issues, including public health and climate change.