Birth Attendance & Missed Deliveries

Birth Attendance Expectations

Doulas are expected to make reasonable, documented efforts to attend births they have committed to.

• Births must only be attended when a licensed provider (physician, midwife, or advanced practice provider) is present.
• Attendance may be in-person or virtual, depending on circumstances and patient preference.

Missed Births

A missed birth may occur due to:

• Rapid or precipitous labor
• Delayed notification by the patient
• Clinical emergencies
• Backup activation of an alternate doula does not work

A birth is considered missed and unbillable when:

• The doula did not arrive as planned, and no backup coverage was arranged
• The patient is left without doula support for the labor and delivery

If a birth is missed:

• Notify Raya Health leadership immediately
• Provide a clear, factual explanation of the circumstances
• Participate in follow-up review if requested

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