HB1252
To Establish The Certified Community-based Doula Certification Act; And To Certify Birth And Postpartum Doulas In This State To Improve Maternal And Infant Outcomes.
AI-Generated Summary
This bill establishes the Certified Community-Based Doula Certification Act in Arkansas. The primary purpose is to certify birth and postpartum doulas within the state with the goal of improving maternal and infant outcomes. The Department of Health is tasked with issuing certifications to individuals who are at least 18 years old and possess a recognized doula certification or a certificate from the Doula Alliance of Arkansas. A certification fee of fifty dollars is required for initial application, and certifications are valid for two years. Renewal requires ten hours of professional development and a renewal fee. The Department of Health will maintain a public registry of certified doulas and has the authority to suspend or revoke certifications for various reasons, including fraud or unethical conduct. The bill outlines the scope of practice for certified doulas, which includes childbirth education, healthcare system navigation, advocacy, resource connection, and emotional and physical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Importantly, it mandates that certified doulas be compensated by the Arkansas Medicaid Program and health benefit plans for their services.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries of this bill are pregnant individuals and new mothers in Arkansas, who would have access to certified community-based doulas. These individuals are expected to benefit from the emotional, physical, and informational support provided by doulas, potentially leading to improved maternal and infant health outcomes. Certified community-based doulas themselves would also benefit by having a formalized certification process, a defined scope of practice, and a pathway for compensation through Medicaid and health benefit plans. Doula certification organizations, particularly the Doula Alliance of Arkansas, would also be beneficiaries through their role in the designation and potentially the tracking of professional development for doulas.
Who Might Suffer?
Entities that might be negatively impacted by this bill are primarily healthcare insurers and self-insured governmental or church plans, as they would be required to provide compensation for doula services. While the bill aims to improve outcomes, the inclusion of doula services as a reimbursable benefit could lead to increased costs for these entities. Additionally, healthcare providers who do not directly collaborate with doulas might experience changes in their practice dynamics or patient engagement. Individuals seeking doula services without utilizing a certified doula may find their options narrowed, although the bill does not prohibit non-certified individuals from providing services. Finally, any existing doula certification organizations that do not meet the criteria established by the Department of Health and the Doula Alliance of Arkansas may be negatively impacted if they are not designated.