The State of Doula Care in NYC, 2025
The State of Doula Care in NYC, 2025 highlights the growing impact of doulas in transforming maternal health, especially for communities facing the greatest inequities. The report shows that doula coverage in NYC has increased by 25% since 2022 with doulas reaching those most at risk: Black and Latina birthing people, Medicaid-enrolled families, new immigrants, and residents of shelters. The report also highlights the critical role community-based doula programs play in reducing preterm birth, supporting mental health, improving patient autonomy, and strengthening trust within the healthcare system. As NYC expands Medicaid coverage for doula care and hospitals adopt doula-friendly policies, this year’s findings reaffirm that compassionate, continuous, culturally grounded support is essential to advancing birth equity.