NYC Doula Initiative Remains Safe Amidst Medicaid Cut Concerns

Mayor Eric Adams has assured New Yorkers that the city's doula initiative, aimed at improving maternal health outcomes for Black and Hispanic women, will remain unaffected by potential Medicaid cuts. This initiative, launched three years ago, is even set to expand.

<img src="https://assets1.cbsnewsstatic.com/hub/i/2025/07/07/7b976fea-5377-4d34-938a-f5545b1cf510/1b95158b929adbfab01e369ab169ef37.jpg" alt="Image of Mayor Adams">

Understanding the Doula Initiative

The program pairs pregnant women, particularly those in underserved communities, with doulas who provide crucial support and guidance throughout their pregnancy and labor. This support is especially vital given the alarming disparity in maternal mortality rates between minority and white women.

Key Benefits:

• Improved maternal health outcomes
• Reduced pregnancy-associated deaths
• Empowered birthing experiences

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Positive Results and Future Expansion

The initiative has yielded impressive results. In 2024, the program exceeded its target, serving 1,128 expecting mothers. Importantly, there have been zero pregnancy-associated deaths among program participants. The city plans to further expand access to doula services.

Empowering Birthing Experiences

Testimonies from mothers highlight the profound impact of doula support. These women describe a more empowered and less stressful birthing experience, leading to safer outcomes. Doulas help provide emotional support, education, and advocacy during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods.