The Cost-Effectiveness of Professional Doula Care for a Woman's First Two Births: A Decision Analysis Model.
Karen S GreinerAlyssa R HershSally R HershJesse M RemerAlexandra C GallagherAaron B CaugheyEllen L TildenPublished in: Journal of midwifery & women's health (2019)
Professional doula care during a woman's first birth may lead to improved outcomes and increased QALYs during her first and second births. Given the limitations of this analysis, the cost-effectiveness estimate is likely conservative, further supporting broader integration of professional doulas into the US maternity care system and highlighting the need for higher doula care reimbursement.