Bornbir Blog

Pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum articles for parents, doulas, lactation consultants, and other perinatal care providers.

Birth Doula Provider-Client Communication

Questions To Ask A Birth Doula Before Hiring (Comprehensive 2024 Guide)

When hiring a doula, it's important to ask questions to ensure that you find the right fit for your needs and preferences. Here are some questions you might consider asking a doula before making a decision:Experience and Training:How long have you been working as a doula?What type of training and certifications do you have?Can you provide references from previous clients?Availability:Are you available around my due date?Do you have backup arrangements in case you are unavailable?Approach to Birth:What is your philosophy or approach to childbirth?How do you support both natural and medicated births?Support During Labor:What kind of support do you typically...

Cost Insurance

Does Cigna Insurance Cover Doula?

The short answer is Yes! To find doulas near you that accept Cigna insurance in 2024, you can follow these steps:Contact Cigna: Call the customer service number on your Cigna insurance card to inquire about doulas that are covered under your plan. They can provide you with a list of in-network doulas.Use the Cigna Provider Directory: Cigna typically has an online provider directory on their official website. You can use this directory to search for doulas in your area who accept Cigna insurance.Match with Cigna insurance covered doulas: Known as the "Airbnb" of doula support simply answer a few questions...

Doula Insurance

Are doula Services FSA or HSA eligible?

Flexible spending accounts (FSAs), health savings accounts (HSAs), and health reimbursement accounts (HRAs) provide a valuable avenue for individuals to cover the costs associated with doula services. These accounts offer the opportunity for reimbursement when supported by a letter of medical necessity, ensuring that individuals can access the essential support provided by doulas during various stages of their healthcare journey.It's important to highlight that doula services are specifically eligible for reimbursement through FSAs, HSAs, and HRAs, making these financial tools instrumental in promoting holistic and supportive healthcare experiences. The inclusion of doula services in these accounts recognizes the significance of...

Doula Insurance

What is the Diagnosis Code or CPT Code for Doula Services?

All claims for doula services must incorporate the diagnosis code Z32.2 (encounter for childbirth instruction) to be eligible for payment consideration. Certified doulas meeting the eligibility criteria should submit billing using the relevant CPT code(s), accompanied by modifier -HD. Additionally, apply modifiers –U7 and/or -22 as applicable, based on the service(s) provided. 59409 - CPT® Code in category: Vaginal delivery only (with or without episiotomy and/or forceps)The diagnosis code for doula services would typically be related to the specific medical condition or situation for which the doula services are being provided. Doula services are often associated with support during childbirth,...

Insurance

How to Find Doulas Near me that Accept Blue Cross Blue Shield in 2024?

To determine if doula services are covered by your Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) insurance, you can follow these steps:Check Your Insurance Policy: Review your insurance policy documents, including the benefits summary or coverage details. Look for information related to maternity or childbirth services. Insurance policies vary, so it's essential to understand the specific coverage details provided by your plan.Contact Blue Cross Blue Shield: Call the customer service number on the back of your insurance card. Speak with a representative and inquire about the coverage for doula services. They can provide information on whether doula services are covered, any limitations,...

Insurance

Is a Doula a Qualified Medical Expense?

As of January 2024, doula services are generally not considered qualified medical expenses for tax purposes. Qualified medical expenses, eligible for reimbursement or deduction, typically include services or items that are directly related to the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of disease. However, you can get your insurance to pay for doula services and ask your medical provider to write you a medical necessity letter. Doulas, while providing valuable emotional and physical support during childbirth, are not typically classified as medical professionals. Therefore, their services are not usually recognized as qualified medical expenses for tax purposes. However, tax laws...

Insurance

How Do I Get a Medical Necessity Letter for a Doula? (Step-by-Step Guide)

Obtaining a medical necessity letter for a doula typically involves working with your healthcare provider. Here are some steps you might consider:Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Talk to your healthcare provider, such as your obstetrician, midwife, or primary care physician. Explain why you believe a doula is medically necessary for your situation. They can assess your health and determine if a doula's support aligns with your medical needs.Provide Information: Be prepared to provide information about your medical history, any existing conditions, and reasons why you think a doula would be beneficial. It's essential to demonstrate that the presence of a doula...

Doula Insurance

Letter Of Medical Necessity For Doula (Updated Example Ready to Use)

[Your Name] [Your Address][Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date][Insurance Company Name] [Claims Department] [Address] Re: [Patient's Full Name] [Date of Birth] [Policy Number]Dear [Insurance Company Name],I am writing to request coverage for doula services for my patient, [Patient's Full Name]. I am [Your Name], a licensed healthcare provider and the attending [Specialty] responsible for the care of the patient.Patient [Patient's Full Name] is currently under my care for [Medical Condition/Diagnosis] and has been recommended to receive doula services as part of their comprehensive medical care plan. The utilization of a doula is deemed medically necessary to address and support the unique...

Doula Insurance

How to Get Your Insurance to Pay For Your Doula (Comprehensive Guide)

The price range for doula services in the United States can vary significantly, from $800 to $3,500. On average, basic doula services, which typically include unlimited communication, prenatal and postpartum visits, and continuous support during labor and delivery, may cost around $1,300. Additional services like childbirth education or specialized postpartum support can increase this amount.When hiring a doula, you'll likely need to pay the full cost upfront. The process involves submitting the paid invoice and insurance claim form to your insurance company for reimbursement. While some insurance companies cover all doula expenses, others may cover only certain associated costs.You can...

Insurance

How to Find Doulas Near me that Accept UnitedHealthcare in 2024?

To find a doula who accepts UnitedHealthcare insurance, you can follow these steps:Check UnitedHealthcare Provider Directory: Visit the official UnitedHealthcare website and use their provider directory or search tool. This tool allows you to search for healthcare providers, including doulas, who are in-network with UnitedHealthcare. You can usually filter your search based on the type of provider you're looking for and your location.Contact UnitedHealthcare Customer Service: Reach out to UnitedHealthcare customer service. You can find the contact information on your insurance card or on the official website. Ask them for a list of doulas in your area who accept UnitedHealthcare...