The proposed bill establishes the "Doula Support for Healthy Births" pilot program in Broward, Miami-Dade, and Palm Beach Counties, aimed at improving maternal and infant health outcomes by integrating doula services into existing maternal health initiatives. The program targets uninsured, underinsured, and Medicaid-eligible parents, with the goal of reducing preterm birth rates and cesarean deliveries while enhancing access to care and supporting maternal well-being throughout pregnancy, labor, and postpartum periods. The Department of Health is tasked with implementing and overseeing the program, which will operate for 12 to 24 months, subject to funding.

The bill defines key terms related to doula services and outlines the specific support services to be provided, including prenatal, labor, postpartum, and advocacy support. It mandates collaboration between the Department of Health and various community organizations to ensure that doulas are well-trained and meet specific criteria. Additionally, the bill allows for the potential expansion of doula services into existing maternal and child health programs, with annual reporting requirements to evaluate the effectiveness of the integration. Funding for the pilot program will come from appropriations for the Closing the Gap grant program, with efforts to secure additional federal funds.