Last Updated on April 30, 2022

Though the state of Indiana (USA) passed legislation in 2019 to provide funding for doula services, the law was unfortunately de-funded in the final budget, rendering the law unenforceable by the state.

Summary

Responding to increasing research and statistical data regarding mortality rates related to childbirth, Indiana passed Act 416 in 2019 to make Medicaid funds available for doula services. Though the measure was signed into law, unfortunately lawmakers de-funded the bill after its passage, leaving the state powerless to take action on the newly enacted law.

The actual wording of the law is brief, but it does leave open for the state, outside of legislation, to enact requirements for doulas who would seek Medicaid reimbursement, if it were available. There is limited available information about legal activities in Indiana at this time.

SB 298 was proposed in 2021 and requires, rather than allows, reimbursement for doula care for Medicaid and some private insurance. No action has been taken since the first reading in January 2021.

For the most up-to-date information about laws regarding doulas in the state of Indiana, contacting Sen. Jean Breaux (D-Indianapolis), the lawmaker behind the original legislation, directly may be your best recourse.

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Last Updated on April 30, 2022