Doula Benefits
Doula Support for Your Parenthood Journey
We are proud to offer doula support as part of our commitment to women’s wellness and clinical excellence. If you’re expecting a baby, adjusting to life with a newborn, or coping with a miscarriage or abortion, this benefit is here for you.
What Are the Doula Benefits?
Reimbursement for Doula Services (For all Western Health Advantage Members)
Your WHA coverage allows you to obtain doula services with a provider of your choice and receive a reimbursement of up to $1,500. You must pay your doula provider directly for covered services, then submit the online reimbursement form via your MyWHA account at mywha.org (see “Request Reimbursement”). Complete the form, attach your receipt(s) and documentation, and submit your reimbursement request. Refer to your EOC/DF for further benefit details. Contact WHA Member Services for questions on how to access doula services and/or receive reimbursement.
Virtual Maternity Support with Maven Maternity (For Small Group, Individual and CalPERS Members)
Western Health Advantage health plan members and their partners have access to virtual care through Maven for pregnancy and postpartum at no additional cost.* Use Maven for 24/7 support from doctors, specialists and coaches (including doulas) and trustworthy content tailored to your experience.
Visit mywha.org/parentsupport. *Check your plan benefits. Currently only select benefit plans offer this program.
What is a Doula?
A doula is not a doctor or midwife, but rather a dedicated support person and advocate on your birth journey. A doula will complement your medical care by focusing on your comfort, understanding, and personal needs. They can answer questions, help you make birth plans, ease your anxieties, and stand up for your preferences when you can’t. It’s like having a knowledgeable friend or coach who’s 100% there for you and your family’s well-being.
Studies show that having a doula can lead to healthier outcomes – for example, mothers with doula care have been found to be less likely to need a C-section and less likely to experience postpartum depression. In other words, you’ll have an experienced partner by your side, helping you feel confident, cared for, and empowered.
For additional information see you blog post on How Doulas Help You