New Pilot Provides Free Doula Care to IHN-CCO Members June 26, 2018 El Community Doula Program is a new pilot project offering free, culturally-matched doula care to all IHN-CCO members in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties. The program seeks to match doulas to the Oregon Health Authority’s priority populations, which includes individuals who: are racially or ethnically diverse. are homeless. have limited to no English. have limited or no family support. are under the age of 21. are medically high-risk. About the Doulas Birth doulas in the Community Doula Program have been trained to the standard set by the state of Oregon. They build trusting relationships with pregnant clients and provide physical, emotional, and informational support before, during and after labor and birth. Doulas meet with clients two times prior to birth, attend the labor and delivery, and then complete at least two in-home visits following the birth. Previous research has shown that individuals who receive doula services are more likely to have spontaneous vaginal births, to initiate and sustain exclusive breastfeeding, and to report being satisfied with their birth and early parenting experiences. How to Refer Your Patients Medicaid-eligible pregnant women can be referred to the Community Doula Program in two ways. First, care providers can refer using this online referral form. Patients may also self-refer using the same link. Second, you may contact the program’s coordinator, Holly Horan, at [email protected]. Schedule a Visit The Community Doula Program staff would be happy to schedule a visit with any available members of your practice or team. They will come to you and provide lunch and more information and materials about the program. Please contact Holly Horan at [email protected]
