As of November 1, Walmart is set to broaden its healthcare coverage, extending access to doula services for employees across the United States. A doula is a trained professional who offers support and assistance to individuals during their pregnancy journey.
While Walmart locations in Georgia, Louisiana, Indiana, and Illinois have provided this benefit in recent years, it will now be accessible nationwide, with the exception of Hawaii, which maintains its distinct health benefits system.
The primary objective of this program, according to Walmart, is to combat racial disparities in healthcare and enhance the maternal and infant health of its workforce, particularly in regions where access to care may be limited. Doulas participating in this initiative are accredited professionals who have received credentials from either the National Black Doulas Association or DONA International.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that Black women are three times more likely to experience pregnancy-related complications resulting in death compared to their white counterparts. This discrepancy is primarily attributed to variations in the quality of healthcare, underlying chronic conditions, and systemic racism.
Research indicates that pregnant individuals who engage a doula experience a 50% reduction in the likelihood of cesarean section, a 25% shorter labor duration, and a decrease of over 50% in the need for other medical interventions, as highlighted by the National Black Doulas Association.
Jillian Bowman, a Walmart employee, shared her experience: “I cannot express just how invaluable it was to have a doula. Not only did I feel so much better prepared for labor, but having the doula there during the birthing process was key to having the natural delivery I had hoped and prayed for. It was my first baby, he weighed 9 pounds and 12 ounces – I have no doubt that without the doula there to assist, coach and advocate for me, I would have ended up with a cesarean section.”
Walmart’s coverage for doula services offers $1,000 in assistance per pregnancy. Additionally, the company’s “Life with Baby” program already provides cost-free resources, including one-on-one coaching from a nurse, tools for monitoring daily progress, and gifts for newborns, further underscoring Walmart’s commitment to improving the well-being of its employees and their families.
