Story perspectives

Doula Advocate Launches Fundraising Amid Virginia Medicaid Barriers

8/11/2026

Summary

Story summary

Taja Iglesias refuses state certification and is fundraising to provide doula care to Medicaid parents outside the program.
Virginia began Medicaid reimbursement for doulas in 2022, becoming the fourth state.
Only 19 Northern Virginia doulas accept Medicaid, with under 1% of Medicaid births using doula services.
Medicaid’s $859 reimbursement plus $100 for prenatal/postpartum visits, covering eight visits, is offset by $75-$150 certification fees and reimbursement that deter many doulas.

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Story summary

Taja Iglesias refuses state certification and is fundraising to provide doula care to Medicaid parents outside the program.
Virginia began Medicaid reimbursement for doulas in 2022, becoming the fourth state.
Only 19 Northern Virginia doulas accept Medicaid, with under 1% of Medicaid births using doula services.
Medicaid’s $859 reimbursement plus $100 for prenatal/postpartum visits, covering eight visits, is offset by $75-$150 certification fees and reimbursement that deter many doulas.