Prior authorization and fees

No prior authorization is required for a patient to be accompanied by a doula. Patients may choose any doula; doulas may accompany patients in Presbyterian facilities; and patients are not required to pay a hospital fee for doula access.

Provider operational responsibilities

A doula does not need hospital credentialing; facility staff should honor the patient’s chosen doula and facilitate accompaniment. For questions or concerns about doula accompaniment, staff should contact the nurse, provider, or Patient Relations.

Facility acknowledgement and contact points

Facility staff must acknowledge and allow the patient’s chosen doula to accompany the patient in Presbyterian facilities and should direct any questions or concerns to the nurse, the patient’s provider, or Patient Relations.

• Do not require hospital credentialing for the doula (doula credentialing not required).
• Do not charge a hospital fee for doula access.
• If concerns arise, contact the nurse, provider, or Patient Relations per facility procedure.

Scope limitations on doula activities

Doulas are non‑medical support persons and must not interfere with the clinical care team; they may not provide medical or clinical care, perform procedures or exams, or make medical decisions. Actions outside this scope may lead to refusal of the doula’s participation.

• Do not allow doulas to perform procedures, exams, or clinical interventions.
• Ensure doulas do not obstruct or conflict with the licensed healthcare team’s provision of care.