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UnitedHealthcare Becomes First Insurer to Cover Doula Services

3/21/2026

30 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Nathalia Marin Torres, a first-time mother, is receiving doula support from Alexia Franco Pettersen in Minneapolis.
Doulas advocate for women and provide non-medical support that can reduce preterm births and postpartum depression.
UnitedHealthcare is the first major insurer to cover doula services, signaling growing recognition of their benefits.
Lane from DONA International cautions the reimbursement model may still limit access for women.

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Story summary

Nathalia Marin Torres, a first-time mother, is receiving doula support from Alexia Franco Pettersen in Minneapolis.
Doulas advocate for women and provide non-medical support that can reduce preterm births and postpartum depression.
UnitedHealthcare is the first major insurer to cover doula services, signaling growing recognition of their benefits.
Lane from DONA International cautions the reimbursement model may still limit access for women.