The Howard County Health Department recently launched a groundbreaking initiative—the Doula Partnership Program—aimed at improving maternal and infant health by bridging public health services with private-sector expertise. This first-of-its-kind program brings together trained, certified doulas and the Health Department to offer comprehensive pregnancy, birth, and postpartum support to families across the income spectrum, from Medicaid-eligible individuals to privately insured, middle-income households.
A doula is an individual trained to provide emotional, physical, and informational support during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. This professional works with a client’s medical team to ensure that all needs are met during the birthing experience. The department’s P.E.A.C.E. Project refers eligible families to a doula and covers all or a large portion of the cost of doula services.
“By investing in this innovative model of care, the Howard County Health Department is advancing its commitment to health equity and ensuring that families have access to the resources and support they need for a healthier start,” said Dr. Maura Rossman, Howard County Health Officer. “The Doula Partnership Program supports birthing individuals throughout pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period to ensure everyone has the opportunity for the best outcome.”
"Doulas play a critical role in delivering maternal and infant healthcare. From providing physical, emotional, and resource support, they are an invaluable help for Howard County moms and families during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum," said Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. "Since taking office in 2018, my team has spearheaded significant investments and initiatives focused on maternal health to improve access to care and reduce health disparities. I applaud Dr. Rossman and her team for increasing doula access and for the positive impact doulas are making with families and babies."
Participating doulas will receive specialized training in Medicaid credentialing and billing and will benefit from a wide range of professional supports, including ongoing client referrals, promotional visibility through the Health Department’s network, access to continuing education and training, and valuable networking opportunities. Doulas interested in connecting with families through HCHD are encouraged to complete the doula partnership interest form.
The launch of this program comes at a critical time. According to the 2024 Maryland Report Card from the March of Dimes, Howard County’s preterm birth rate (births occurring before 37 weeks of pregnancy) rose to 10.2% in 2023—a concerning trend that underscores the urgent need for enhanced support systems for pregnant and postpartum individuals. Doula care has been shown to significantly improve birth outcomes, including reduced rates of cesarean sections, premature births, and low birth weight infants. In addition, doula support is associated with improved maternal mental health, including lower rates of postpartum depression and anxiety.
More information about the Doula Partnership Program—including eligibility requirements and other pregnancy and postpartum services available at HCHD—can be found on the P.E.A.C.E. Project webpage.