All people have the right to safe, healthy, dignified experiences of pregnancy, birth, postpartum and other reproductive experiences. We know doula care promotes better outcomes. We believe everyone should have access to doula care if they want it.
Access to doula care is a core value of our organization and we are grateful to have the opportunity to connect you to the care you are seeking. Below, you will find more information about if you are eligible for free doula care and if so, the process for getting started with your doula!
Eligibility
Health Equity Program
While we would love to provide free doula care to anyone, because of our funding limitations, we are prioritizing people most affected by disparities in birth outcomes in our community. If you identify as Black or Indigenous and live in Tompkins County, you are eligible for free doula care through our Health Equity Program.
Within Reach Program
If you are not eligible for the Birth Equity Program but you live in Tompkins County and your income qualifies you for the MOMS Program (click here to see details) you may be eligible for free doula care through our Within Reach Program.
If you are interested in finding affordable doula care but your income exceeds the MOMS eligibility amounts contact us at info@ithacadoulaaccess.com to talk about other options.
If you’d like more information before applying for a doula, read on about common questions!
Common Questions
I am looking for a doula for birth, postpartum or full spectrum care, can you help?
Yes! We are so excited to connect to you compassionate care. The first step is to fill out a form to apply for a doula. Then we will be in touch with you about next steps!
What happens after I contact you for support?
If you are eligible and funding is available, DAI will reach out to available doulas and you will have the opportunity to interview the available doulas and decide which one would be the best fit for your needs.
What is the difference between the Health Equity Program and the Within Reach Program?
From the outside, not much. Internally, as an organization with limited funding we are are prioritizing doula care for people most affected by disparities in birth outcomes in Tompkins County. This has created two different funding streams; one for people who identify as Black or Indigenous, regardless of income level, and one for income-eligible community members.
What if I already have a doula, and just need support with paying for the doula?
We got you covered! If they aren’t already a contract doula with DAI, they would need to fill out a bit of paperwork so we can pay them for their care.
How many visits do I get with my doula?
It depends on what type of service you are reaching out for. For birth doula services, we will pay the doula $600 for 2 prenatal visits, the birth and 1 postpartum visit. Your doula can offer more visits than that, but that is the structure our our care as of now.
For postpartum or full spectrum care, your doula would be paid for an hourly wage of $20/hour and you would need to communicate how many hours of care you were looking for. Through this program, participants are eligible for up to 20 hours of free care.
Is there paperwork I need to fill out?
Yes, we ask that participants fill out an evaluation of doula services. Your wisdom, insights and recommendations are very important! DAI is always striving to better serve and support families and our community. This information will remain confidential and secure, so feel free to share your name and the name of your doula or feel free to share your thoughts anonymously. While we are not bound by HIPPA we do try to follow HIPPA as much as we can.
Your doula might have a few other forms for you about your plans, preferences and wishes. Those forms will stay between you and your doula.
Are there any other perks of participating in your program?
We know that respectful doula support through any reproductive transition can have tremendous benefit for those supported. In addition to that, doulas are great community builders, connecters to resources, and can provide a ton of education to help you be an informed, empowered consumer of your care.
I have a doula, how do I log in to access paperwork and additional resources?
Here is where you access all of that information! And if we can support you with any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out.