Doula Care Goes Mainstream: What California Families Need to Know About AB 904

Exploring the transformative power of California’s AB 904 and how Diamond Valley Birth Collective is leading the way in equitable doula care.

At Diamond Valley Birth Collective, we’ve always believed that compassionate, personalized care should be accessible to everyone. Thanks to recent legislative changes, we’re one step closer to achieving that vision. Doula services, once considered a luxury, are now recognized as a critical component of equitable maternal and infant care. With California Assembly Bill (AB) 904, the landscape of birthwork is changing for the better.

What is AB 904?

Assembly Bill (AB) 904 mandates that, by January 1, 2025, all health insurers in California develop maternal and infant health equity programs to address racial disparities through doula care. This groundbreaking legislation acknowledges the profound impact doulas can have on maternal and infant health outcomes, especially in communities that have historically faced systemic inequities in healthcare. By ensuring doula services are covered by insurance, AB 904 makes these vital supports available to all families, not just those with financial privilege.

Why Was AB 904 Implemented?

California’s maternal and infant mortality rates, particularly among Black and Indigenous families, highlight the urgent need for systemic change. Structural inequities in healthcare have long contributed to higher rates of pregnancy-related complications and poor outcomes for marginalized communities. Doula care has been proven to:

• Reduce cesarean rates.

• Lower instances of preterm birth.

• Improve breastfeeding initiation and duration.

• Enhance overall satisfaction with the birth experience.

AB 904 was implemented to address these disparities and create a more equitable healthcare system. By integrating doula care into maternal health programs, the state is taking a significant step toward reducing these alarming disparities.

The Role of Medi-Cal in Advancing Equity

Medi-Cal plays a pivotal role in this effort. As California’s Medicaid program, Medi-Cal serves millions of low-income families who are often the most affected by systemic healthcare inequities. By requiring Medi-Cal and managed care plans to include doula services, AB 904 ensures that those who need this support the most can access it without financial barriers. This is especially crucial for families in rural areas or underserved communities, where options for quality maternal care may be limited.

Where Diamond Valley Birth Collective Fits In

At Diamond Valley Birth Collective, we proudly accept all Medi-Cal plans, managed care plans, IEHP, Molina, Tricare, and PPO insurance. This inclusivity allows us to extend our services to as many families as possible, ensuring that everyone—regardless of income, background, or insurance provider—can access the care they need.

We understand that not every family starts their journey with us during pregnancy, and that’s okay. Whether you’re pregnant or in your first year postpartum, our team is here to provide personalized, compassionate care whenever you need it. From emotional and physical support during labor to postpartum guidance and lactation consulting, we’re committed to making your transition into parenthood smoother, healthier, and more equitable.

Why Doula Care Matters

Doulas provide far more than labor support. We advocate for families, offer culturally sensitive care, and address the gaps in traditional healthcare systems. For families navigating layers of marginalization, having a doula can make all the difference in feeling heard, respected, and empowered during one of life’s most transformative experiences.

Join Us in Transforming Care

Legislative changes like AB 904 are a step toward a future where all families can thrive. At Diamond Valley Birth Collective, we’re proud to be part of this movement, working to improve outcomes and foster equity in birth for all families. Together, we can create a world where compassionate, accessible care is the standard, not the exception.

If you’re ready to experience the difference that equitable, inclusive doula care can make, contact Diamond Valley Birth Collective today. We’re here for you—every step of the way.