Assessment of Doulas as a Licensed Profession in Vermont

The Office of Professional Regulation (OPR) is tasked with providing a preliminary assessment of Doulas becoming a licensed profession in Vermont. Per Act 97 (2024) the General Assembly has determined that the regulation of Doulas is necessary. OPR has been asked to determine the appropriate form of regulation for Doulas in Vermont consistent with the principles and standards set forth in 26 V.S.A. Chapter 57.

OPR's goal is to be informed of relevant issues, receptive to all views, and faithful to the analytical criteria set out in the statute. To best understand the process, participants are strongly encouraged to review the Chapter 57 criteria and standards.

Requests for Preliminary Assessment

• Act 97 – An Act Relating to Medicaid Coverage for Doula Services
• Access to Prenatal Services in Medicaid
• Brief – Understanding Barriers and Facilitators to Payer Investment in Doula care
• Policy Brief – Getting Doulas Paid
• US Doula Programs and Their Outcomes
• What, When, How Long – Doula Time Use

The final report was submitted to the Vermont Legislature on January 8, 2025. Click here to read the full Doula Sunrise Report.

Comments and Questions

The public comment period closed on November 12, 2024. Thank you to those who provided comment.

Public Hearings

OPR held two (2) public meetings in October to invite comment from the public and stakeholders. Public hearings were held in the OPR Board Room at 89 Main Street, 3^rd floor, Montpelier, VT 05620 and available by video link.