How to Choose Your Medi-Cal Doula: What to Look For and Why It Matters
Choosing a doula is one of the most personal decisions you’ll make during your pregnancy. Whether it’s your first baby or your third, your doula will walk beside you through the most powerful moments of your life. If you're a Medi-Cal member in California, you're now eligible to receive doula support at no cost to you—but how do you choose the right one?
Here’s what to look for and what to consider when choosing your Medi-Cal doula.
Start With the Right Directory
The best place to begin is the DHCS Medi-Cal Doula Directory. You can filter by county to see which doulas are enrolled in your area.
Here are the counties Melancentric are accepting members from with Medi-Cal health plans—and we’d love to serve you.
Know What’s Covered
When choosing a doula through Medi-Cal, make sure they’re enrolled and authorized to provide:
1 welcome/intake visit
Up to 8 prenatal or postpartum visits
Birth support (including miscarriage/abortion support)
2 extended postpartum sessions (3 hours each)
Ask About Experience and Training
Every doula brings different strengths. Here are a few questions to ask:
What training or certifications do you have?
Do you have experience working with Medi-Cal clients?
What kinds of births have you supported?
Are you familiar with hospital protocols?
At Melancentric, all our doulas are trained to navigate both clinical and community settings—we specialize in hospital-based births and postpartum support.
Prioritize Compatibility and Communication
You’ll want someone who makes you feel safe, respected, and understood. During your first meeting, ask yourself:
Do they listen without judgment?
Are they open to my birth preferences?
Do I feel comfortable and supported?
A good doula won’t try to push you toward any one birth plan—they’ll walk beside you, offering resources and encouragement every step of the way.
Consider Language, Cultural Sensitivity & Availability
Do you need a doula who speaks your language, understands your cultural practices, or is familiar with specific hospital systems?
Melancentric doulas reflect the communities we serve. We prioritize equity, cultural awareness, and clear communication—especially for women navigating Medi-Cal for the first time.
