Bill > S4225

This bill, titled the "DOULA for VA Act of 2026," mandates that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs establish a five-year pilot program to provide doula services to eligible veterans, defined as pregnant or formerly pregnant veterans enrolled in the VA healthcare system. A doula is a trained professional who offers non-medical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum, acting as an advocate for the veteran. The program aims to improve maternal and mental health outcomes, integrate doula support into the VA's Whole Health model, and enhance the maternity care experience for women veterans, with a specific focus on addressing disparities and supporting those with higher-risk pregnancies or mental health conditions. The pilot will be implemented across various Veterans Integrated Service Networks (VISNs) to ensure broad reach and will include consultation with veteran organizations, healthcare professionals, and experts in health equity. The program will cover up to 10 doula sessions per veteran, including pre-labor, during labor, and postpartum sessions, with some postpartum sessions potentially conducted via VA Video Connect, a secure telehealth platform. The Office of Women's Health will oversee the program, establish guidelines for doula training on issues like military sexual trauma, and recommend payment amounts not exceeding $3,500 per veteran. A Doula Service Coordinator will be established at participating facilities to manage logistics and payments, and doulas will report on each session. The Secretary will submit annual reports on the pilot's progress and make recommendations for its continuation or expansion.