Potential Medicaid Cuts Under Trump: How It Could Affect Doula Coverage in California & How to Advocate

Access to doula services through Medi-Cal has been a game-changer for expectant and new parents across California. However, potential cuts to Medicaid under Donald Trump’s proposed policies could threaten this essential coverage, making it harder for families—especially low-income and marginalized communities—to receive critical birth and postpartum support.

In this post, we’ll break down how potential Medicaid cuts could impact doula coverage in California, what this means for families in Butte, Humboldt, and surrounding counties, and how you can advocate to keep Medi-Cal-funded doula services available.

How Trump’s Proposed Medicaid Cuts Could Impact Doula Services in California

Medicaid, known as Medi-Cal in California, provides healthcare coverage for millions of families, including pregnancy, birth, and postpartum doula services. Since California began reimbursing doulas through Medi-Cal, families have had improved access to evidence-based, culturally competent support during childbirth and beyond. However, if Medicaid funding is reduced:

• Fewer Covered Services: Cuts could mean fewer reimbursable doula visits, reducing essential prenatal and postpartum care.

• Lower Reimbursement Rates: If reimbursement rates decrease, fewer doulas may accept Medi-Cal clients, leading to provider shortages.

• Stricter Eligibility Requirements: More restrictions could make it harder for families to qualify for Medi-Cal-funded doula services.

• Increased Health Disparities: Reduced access to doulas could disproportionately impact Black, Indigenous, and low-income families, worsening maternal and infant health outcomes.

Why Doula Coverage Matters for Medi-Cal Families

Doulas provide emotional, physical, and informational support that leads to better birth and postpartum experiences. Research shows that doula support helps reduce C-section rates, improve birth outcomes, and lower the risk of postpartum depression. For families relying on Medi-Cal, doulas are a critical resource for ensuring a safe and supported transition into parenthood.

What California Families Can Do to Protect Doula Coverage Under Medi-Cal

While potential Medicaid cuts could threaten these services, there are ways to take action and advocate for continued coverage:

1. Stay Informed About Policy Changes

• Follow organizations that monitor Medicaid and doula policy, such as California Pan-Ethnic Health Network (CPEHN) and The National Health Law Program (NHeLP).

• Sign up for updates from California’s Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) to stay aware of Medi-Cal policy shifts.

2. Contact Your State Representatives

California lawmakers play a major role in determining Medi-Cal’s budget. Reach out to your local legislators and urge them to protect funding for Medi-Cal doula services.

• Find your state representatives: https://findyourrep.legislature.ca.gov/

• Call or email: Express how doula services have benefited families in Butte and Humboldt Counties and why continued coverage is essential.

3. Support Advocacy Groups Fighting for Birth Equity

Organizations working to protect Medi-Cal-funded doula services include:

• Black Women for Wellness (https://www.bwwla.org/)

• March of Dimes – California Advocacy (https://www.marchofdimes.org/advocacy/california.aspx)

• National Birth Equity Collaborative (https://birthequity.org/)

4. Share Your Story

Personal experiences make a powerful impact. If you’ve benefited from Medi-Cal doula services, share your story with advocacy groups, legislators, or on social media using hashtags like #ProtectMediCal #DoulasForAll #BirthJustice.

5. Attend Local and Virtual Advocacy Events

Many organizations host town halls, webinars, and petitions focused on preserving birth and postpartum care under Medi-Cal. Keep an eye out for:

• California Doula Coalition events

• Birth Justice Advocacy Days

• Medicaid policy hearings

Final Thoughts: Protecting Doula Coverage for Future Families

As potential Medicaid cuts loom, protecting Medi-Cal reimbursement for doulas is more important than ever. By staying informed, reaching out to legislators, supporting advocacy organizations, and sharing your story, you can help ensure that families in Butte and Humboldt Counties continue to receive the birth and postpartum support they deserve.

Looking for a Medi-Cal doula in Northern California? The Village Doula Collective is committed to supporting families in Chico, Butte County, and Humboldt County. Contact us today to learn more about our birth and postpartum services covered by Medi-Cal!