Can I Use Insurance for a Doula in Oregon?
What Families Need to Know in 2026
For years, families have recognized the value of doula support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery. Now, Oregon is taking an important step toward making that support more accessible.
As of January 1, 2026, Oregon's Senate Bill 692 (SB 692) requires many private health insurance plans that cover pregnancy and childbirth to also cover doula services.
This is exciting news for Oregon families, but it's important to understand what the law does—and doesn't—guarantee.
What Is Senate Bill 692?
Senate Bill 692 was signed into law in 2025 and took effect on January 1, 2026.
The law expands access to doula care by requiring many private insurance plans that already cover pregnancy and childbirth to also cover doula services. Oregon has long been a leader in supporting maternal and infant health, and this legislation recognizes the important role doulas play in improving outcomes and supporting families throughout the perinatal period.
What SB 692 Does
The law:
Requires many private insurers that cover pregnancy and childbirth to also cover doula services, including prenatal, birth, and postpartum support.
Eliminates requirements for referrals, prior authorizations, or physician signatures in many cases.
Expands recognition of community-based perinatal care providers.
Increases transparency by requiring insurers to provide information about accessing covered doula services.
Supports workforce development and culturally responsive care throughout Oregon.
This legislation reflects a growing understanding that families benefit from continuous support throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period—not just during labor itself.
What SB 692 Does Not Solve
While this law is a significant step forward, there are still challenges that families should be aware of.
Reimbursement Rates Remain Low
Although insurance companies are now required to cover doula services, the law does not require them to reimburse doulas at a specific rate.
Many reimbursement amounts currently being discussed or offered remain well below the fees charged by experienced birth and postpartum doulas. As a result, some families may still have out-of-pocket costs, depending on their provider and insurance plan.
Not All Doulas Are In-Network
The law does not require insurance companies to contract directly with doulas or create extensive in-network provider networks.
Many doulas throughout Oregon continue to operate as out-of-network providers. This means families may need to pay for services upfront and then seek reimbursement from their insurance company.
Coverage May Be Limited
Coverage requirements establish a baseline level of support, but they do not guarantee unlimited services.
Families who desire more extensive postpartum support than their insurance plan covers may still choose to invest in additional care out of pocket.
Insurance Processes Are Still Evolving
Insurance companies, state agencies, and birth professionals are all working through new systems and procedures as this legislation is implemented.
As with any major policy change, there will likely be adjustments and clarifications as coverage becomes more widely available.
Why This Matters for Families
One of the most exciting aspects of SB 692 is that it recognizes that support doesn't begin and end in the delivery room.
Pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery are deeply connected experiences. Families often benefit from education, emotional support, advocacy, and practical guidance throughout the entire journey.
Research continues to show that continuous support during the perinatal period can contribute to:
Greater satisfaction with the birth experience
Increased confidence in parenting
Improved breastfeeding outcomes
Reduced stress and anxiety
Better postpartum adjustment
Stronger family bonding
Every family deserves access to support that helps them feel informed, empowered, and cared for during this important season of life.
How Birthing Days Supports Families
At Birthing Days, my focus remains the same: providing compassionate, evidence-based support that meets families where they are.
While insurance coverage for doula care continues to expand, every insurance plan is different. Coverage amounts, reimbursement requirements, and eligibility can vary significantly between providers.
Superbills for Insurance Reimbursement
If your insurance plan offers reimbursement for out-of-network doula services, I can provide a superbill after services are rendered.
A superbill is a detailed receipt that you can submit directly to your insurance company for possible reimbursement.
Because every insurance plan is different, I encourage families to contact their insurance provider before booking services to ask:
Does my plan cover doula services?
Are birth doula services covered?
Are postpartum doula services covered?
Is out-of-network reimbursement available?
What documentation is required for reimbursement?
What percentage of services may be reimbursed?
Understanding your benefits ahead of time can help you make informed decisions about your care.
Looking Ahead
Oregon's new insurance mandate represents meaningful progress toward greater access to doula support. While there is still work to be done, this legislation reflects a growing recognition that families deserve comprehensive support throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery.
As these changes continue to unfold, I remain committed to helping families understand their options, navigate available resources, and receive the support they need during one of life's most transformative experiences.
If you're expecting a baby and would like to learn more about birth doula or postpartum doula support, I'd love to connect with you and explore what support might look like for your family.
Ready to learn more?
If you're expecting and would like to explore birth or postpartum doula support, I'd love to connect. Schedule a complimentary consultation and we'll talk about your goals, your support needs, and whether Birthing Days is the right fit for your family.
