Frequently Asked Questions

In 2021 interested parties gathered to discuss the future of the Doula profession.   Overtime leaders emerged to direct the conversation, complete research adn present options to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Doulas, and other interested Parties. Gerria Coffee, Aleta Heard, Theresa Pettaway & Laurent Pietrowski began to organize and form the Non-profit Organization, the Pennsylvania Doula Commission. 

The Certified Perinatal Doula Credential is necessary to create a standard for the PA Department of Human services and CMS to recognize Doulas as a provider type. Being recognized as a provider is an important step in your services being reimbursable when providing Doula support to  families who are enrolled in Medicaid.

in 2021 nearly 90 people who are doulas midwives, and public health experts met regularly to collaborate on a scope of work that allowed us to develop a credential without over regulating the work. Our goal as a team was to create a standard that we can work with. 

That is great!! We could use the support. Complete the application to join one of our committees and the Committee Chair will contact you. 

DONA is a respected brand no doubt, but this credential is designed specifically to the needs of our community and families placed in the margin. the CPD credential applies to birth, postpartum and loss support. It is an entirely new scope. 

 Malpractice insurance for doulas protects personal assets and covers legal expenses in the event a malpractice or professional liability lawsuit is brought against a birthing doula. Doula personal liability insurance is necessary so doulas can tend to mothers/birthing people and families without fear of litigation. As doula services become more popular, the demand for liability insurance for doulas also is increasing.  You can purchase insurance through the Pa Doula Commission Here

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You can apply for the CPD credential here https://www.pacertboard.org/doula There are both paper and online application options. 

As it stands any training that meets the minimum 24 Hour  requirement and contains the core competencies is an approved training  during the legacy period only. The Legacy Period ends 12/31/23

PADC is happy to cover the cost of the CPD application, which is $50 dollars for applicants in Pennsylvania. Apply Here

You can find the most current listing of Doulas with the state credential in our website navigation under Updated CPD List or by clicking here