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 pregnant women, 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 may operate for 12 to 24 months, depending on funding availability.

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, healthcare providers, and local WIC programs to ensure effective outreach and service delivery. 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 program's effectiveness. Funding for the pilot program will come from appropriations for the Closing the Gap grant program, with efforts to secure additional federal funds for implementation.