Article Link – An OpEd

Abstract

Maternal mortality has become an increasingly serious concern in the United States. The considerable variation in rates among different racial and ethnic groups points toward deeper, systemic and sociocultural variables at play, adding to the complexity of a problem in desperate need of a solution.

Doulas can help. These underutilized birth workers have been proven to improve health outcomes for both mothers and babies, and a growing number of experts are calling for increased access to doula care. While this call has been partially answered in Oklahoma — most notably through the extension of the state’s Medicaid program to include reimbursement for doula care — obstacles remain throughout the chain of care.

It’s time to think outside the box to raise awareness, improve access, and break down the barriers to doula care in the heartland and beyond.