Bill > A05309

This bill authorizes the New York State Commissioner of Health to issue a statewide standing order for doula services, which means the commissioner can create a blanket authorization for doulas to provide care to pregnant, birthing, and postpartum individuals without requiring individual patient-specific medical orders. A standing order is a pre-approved medical protocol that allows healthcare professionals to provide specific services without obtaining direct physician approval for each patient. The bill specifically covers individuals from pregnancy through twelve months after giving birth, and it explicitly overrides existing education law restrictions that might otherwise prevent doulas from providing these services. By creating this statewide standing order, the bill aims to improve access to doula services, which can provide important medical, emotional, and practical support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. The legislation would take effect immediately upon passage, enabling quick implementation of the standing order for doula services across New York State.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A5309