The Iowa Department of Public Health will seek to reduce maternal health disparities for African American/Black birthing people in Iowa. They will enhance Iowa's Maternal Child Health Title V service delivery system by incorporating a community-based, culturally congruent doula program. This program will be implemented 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. Funding from the Mid-Iowa Health Foundation will support general operating expenses, including certification and mentorship of participating doulas, to grow and diversify Iowa’s perinatal workforce.
