Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about doula care with EmpowerMama. Don't see your question? Send us a message below and our team will help.
Medicaid and Coverage Questions
Who qualifies for a Medicaid doula in Pennsylvania?
Pregnant and postpartum people enrolled in Pennsylvania Medicaid (Medical Assistance), including members of Keystone First, Highmark Wholecare, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan and Geisinger Health Plan. Not sure about your coverage? We will check for you.
How many doula visits does Medicaid cover?
Pennsylvania Medicaid covers up to 12 prenatal and postpartum visits a year, plus continuous support during labor and delivery.
Do I need a referral?
You need a short doula recommendation form signed by a licensed provider, such as your doctor, midwife, nurse practitioner, licensed therapist or social worker. We help you get it. No prior authorization is needed.
What does a doula do during labor?
Your doula stays with you through labor and birth, offering comfort measures, positioning, breathing support and help making sure your preferences are heard. Doulas do not provide medical care.
What if I need a C-section?
Your doula still supports you before and after a cesarean birth, following your hospital's policies, and continues with your postpartum visits.
Can my doula visit me at home?
Yes. Many prenatal and postpartum visits happen in your home, and some can happen by video.
What happens after I sign up?
Our team verifies your coverage and reaches out within three business days. Then we match you with a doula who fits your needs, language and location.
Do you accept other insurance?
We also work with UnitedHealthcare commercial plans. Call us at 267-603-3880 to ask about your plan.
How do I reach EmpowerMama?
Call 267-603-3880 or send us a message below. Our office is at 20 St. Asaph's Rd, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004.
Doula care, explained
What is a doula?
A trained, non-medical support person who is with you through pregnancy, birth, and the weeks after.
When should I sign up?
As early as you like in pregnancy. Postpartum support is available after birth, too.
Is it really free?
For most families with PA Medicaid or a participating plan, yes. We verify your coverage before care begins.
What languages do you offer?
Our doulas speak English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole. Tell us your preference when you sign up.
Do I still see my doctor?
Yes. Your doula works alongside your doctor or midwife, never in place of them.
Which counties do you serve?
We serve 27 counties: Adams, Berks, Bradford, Bucks, Carbon, Chester, Columbia, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, Pike, Schuylkill, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Wayne, Wyoming, and York.
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