The 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 will specifically target pregnant and postpartum women who have overcome or are overcoming substance use disorders, with the goal of decreasing preterm birth rates and cesarean deliveries while enhancing access to care and supporting maternal well-being. The Department of Health will implement and oversee the program, which will operate for 12 to 24 months based on appropriated funds, and will provide various support services including prenatal, labor, and postpartum assistance.
Additionally, the bill creates the "Doula Certification Task Force" within the Department of Health to review the scope of doula services and ensure quality and consistency in their delivery. The task force will consist of nine members appointed by state leaders and will be responsible for establishing core competencies and recommending certification standards for doulas. The task force is required to submit a final report of its findings and recommendations by January 1, 2028, and will operate until October 2, 2029.