Recognizing disparities in maternal health outcomes for African American/Black-identified birthing people in Iowa, IDPH seeks to reduce these disparities by enhancing Iowa's Maternal Child Health Title V service delivery system to include a community-based, culturally congruent doula program. IDPH will implement the doula program at four Title V agencies serving large percentages of African American/Black clients. Maternal health outcomes data will be tracked to establish the case for insurer reimbursement of doula services. Mid-Iowa Health Foundation funds will go toward general operating expenses to support the project, including certification and mentorship of participating doulas for doula certification and breastfeeding certification to support the growth and diversification of Iowa’s perinatal workforce.
